While I don't agree with the amount of patience shown in Crosby, I do try to see both sides of the issue and keep an open mind about it, respecting the amount of analysis and research that management has no doubt done in their decision-making process. On that note, here is an interesting article about Crosby:
http://m.espn.go.com/general/blogs/blogpost?blogname=nfcnorth&id=53734&src=desktop
The research is done by guys at MIT, who are certainly qualified minds. It attempts to take all variables into consideration evaluating kickers: distance, weather, etc.
It does conclude that Crosby is actually very underrated when all variables are considered. I'd have to have a better understanding of their math and formulas to really comment. It doesn't appear to pass the eye test to me, and other studies may have different conclusions, but sometimes analysis and the eye test don't always match up.
At the least, it does give me a better understanding of the thought process that goes into this. In any event, I do believe that the leash will be shorter this year and if he struggles, Mason will likely be replaced before it comes down to a playoff game.