Mr. Doub is clearly using negative indicators of hydrology as identified in the soil profile to refute his positive primary indicator of hydrology. They have often stated that if they meet all three criteria per the manual, then they have a wetland. Just a few thoughts to add to the discussion. However, that is not the latest version. If you are in a decent sized to large floodplain, you will have ample evidence of the fluvial natural of the soils profile development and can try to use that to couple with the chromas you find that you think are due to hydrology.
Problem is that dark colored topsoils tend to visually obscure the reduced soil colors.
But the Manual was never intended to imply that reduced soil colors within 10 inches of the surface, clearly overlain by soils with colors and other properties of well aerated soils, are a field indicator of hydric soil. Upland vegetation can grow shallow roots and take advantage of the aerated layer. Of course, I always take a wholistic approach, consider seasonal characteristics, and of course consult SCS soil surveys and the NRCS field indicator guidance for info on regional soil characteristics. The 1987 Manual does not provide clear guidance on this issue. The former 1989 Federal Manual was even worse, perhaps one reason why it was abandoned.