Seems to me that the reach schools get reachier every year. My D experienced the same two cycles ago in terms of stats from her school.
I agree that it helps soften the blow to realize you aren’t alone. My D had an EA deferral that stung but her school’s val also was deferred so they commiserated and she did feel better ; ).
Happy to hear that your son is in better spirits already. He’ll do great wherever he lands!