I would agree with both of you. All things considered, USNA repeatedly emphasizes the WHOLE candidate. DS had an SAT in the 85%, and ACT was 91%. It was not the lofty 1400 and up range.
What his transcripts reflected was a 4.0 in all courses taken, including the dual credit honors courses (no AP or IB for our area). His resume and transcripts made it clear he could manage a very challenging schedule and excel.
He had leadership in multiple areas, in clubs, and in his sport (TKD), and he had demonstrated leadership in teaching TKD.
He had public speaking experience (I highly encourage all high school students to check out the American Legion Oratorical Contest) that forced him to find composure and poise in public scenarios (think future interviews).
The point is that a 1600 SAT may light up an admissions board, but if that applicant cannot demonstrate any success in other categories, I highly doubt it earns an appointment. I have had students who hit high 1500's on the SAT, one who scored a 35 on his first try on the ACT (I drove DS and him to take the exam. Man, was DS pissed when the kid pulled the 35, happy for him, but boggled). He had a 2.2 GPA, no leadership, no athletics, and never turned in homework, he just had a genius brain with an aptitude for test taking. He couldn't speak in front of people, would bumble interviews, and let's just say essay writing was not his jam. He found his niche with the enlisted nuclear Navy and loves his current job.
He had 1 leg of a 3 legged stool. A well well-rounded candidate needs all 3 to compete.