User blog comment:Fistful of Force/Why ELO and Meta is god at low to mid elo/@comment-4842032-20120602204538

With reference to the nature of the meta as a framework for players to work with, I want to add something.

The meta does more than provide a standard way to play, useful for people whose inexperience means that they focus more on the basics than on complex teamfighting dynamics. The meta provides the proper elements for success with sub-par players. Standard meta gives you the potential for two of everything.

1. Tank and support - defend carries

2. AP caster and AD ranged - kill enemy

3. Jungler and solo top - ensure gold and exp superiority

4. Tank and one other (can be any other role)- assassinate/incapacitate enemies

5. AP caster and jungler - roam and support during laning

If a single person is failing at their job, you are at a disadvantage, but you still have other champions who can do their job for them.