Have to 100% agree with Andy here. Feel like the author of the article is looking for reasons where they don't necessarily exist. Yup, everyone is more aero and quicker but they were also more aero in 2017 compared to say 2014 and in 2010 more aero than 2005. Not a factor in my opinion, let alone a 'new factor'.
Main reason was absolutely bad strategy. Peloton was saving itself for the sprint, directors were saving lead-out man for the sprint, almost everyone thought the breakaway won't cooperate for as long as they did.