While op did have an overthinking articulation of it. The second part of understanding really quickly whether you won or lost is something that comes with experience. I can throw three signs quickly, but we're not playing the games if there is no thought behind which sign to throw and the brain needs more time than is socially accepted to understand if i won or lost.
And the primary process is complete BS. Bernie sanders and Elizabeth Warren were constantly 1,2 in the primaries but both dropped out when the DNC wanted to back biden instead.
Gifted kid is still smart much like not pro sport guy is still good their sport. But both have the reality of they weren't good enough when they grew up with their respective skills being their only identity.
Talking about your high school game where you threw 4 you touchdowns also doesn't translate well into adulthood.
Pass the ball dawg. Nobody likes a ball hog.