We need to be asking why several players' form has dropped off.
We also need to be aware that many players form has demonstrably improved. You didn't give any examples to substantiate your claim, but I have previously and will continue to;
Meaney, used to be very suspect under kicks, has dropped one this year and that really wasn't his fault. In all of his game is now virtually error free, something that many Newcastle supports thought impossible.
Cogger, big improvement on his playing since he arrived, many at Newcastle were happy to see him leave.
Foran, playing better than he has for the last 3 years due to the amazing fitness and recovery work of the whole staff, working under the head coach.
JMK, learning the hooker's trade and improving every game, still only 23, people forget that Cook didn't really stand out as hooker until his mid 20's.
Ogden, played his first ever NRL game under Pay and has improved to the point where he's demanding his spot every game. He is also only 23 which is young for a prop developing.
RFM, played his first ever NRL game under Pay and has improved to the point where he's in the mix for a spot every game.
To'Omaga, played his first ever NRL game under Pay and has improved to the point where he is knocking on the door for a regular NRL spot. He is also only 23.
Sue, I actually was very sceptical of his signing, thought he was barely CC quality, but he has stepped up a level and for his size now hits hard (a Pay trait that I seem to remember from his playing days).
Montoya, he's an enigma, was good in 2017, injured, then horrible in 2018 and thought he was goner, but FMD he's been way better than I thought possible this year. Still not brilliant or consistent of course.
Okunbor, Harper and Kotoa all not yet at consistent NRL standard, but way better players than they were when Pay and the coaching staff started coaching them.
I'm not suggesting that anyone of them is a world beater but that I have seen improvement in them, all since Pay took over as coach.
Go Dogs