The Earl of 15-20 years ago was a superior tournament player. Of course the game was 9-Ball then. But if it had been Ten Ball, I doubt that would have made much difference. Want to know why? Very simple! He missed fewer balls and played better position. His break wasn't too shabby either. And he could do that day and night for weeks and months if necessary. Shane is good, very good, but Earl was still a notch better in tournament play. He just had a higher gear. You had to see it Chris in the 80's and early 90's. Earl was AWESOME! Sigel was great and a winner all the way, but Earl had a higher gear even then Mike.
Now when it came to gambling at pool, I would have picked Buddy and Parica both over Earl in his prime. In fact Jose beat him pretty bad in their one match-up for the cash. But gambling is a little different animal as you know.
Shane today is close to Earl's top speed but it's just not the same game as watching Earl in his prime. He made it look so easy. Shane is working out there. Earl looked like he was practicing!