I think the cycle has a lot to do with our expectations: "This season is awesome!! This season is not as good as last season. This show has gone downhill; my expectations are lowered. This season is awesome!!" etc.

I like the mob thing. Someone's finally on Dexter's tail. Other than cops, I mean. And he's got the temptation to kill someone who's not a murderer but is really pissing him off.