The whole thing aside....genetics are really not the sole guiding force in antler development. What I was trying to elude to is that the prevalence of large racks in the midwest and the portion of Canada above is caused by environmental factors, namely the nutrients in the soil and vegetation of that region.
It's all about nutrition mainly.
Just look at an area that had logging activity within the preceding decade and you will see a huge jump in antler size. I've seen it.
Age and nutrition are the key. If it's dead at 18 months, there is no way to ever know or judge the potential.
Remember, It was still believed not long ago that once a spike: always a spike. Where that came from I have no idea!