Thanks for the update. I can see that you didn't over-stuff your bag. I think that makes a difference. Also an excellent point about being a tall person so you believe the bag doesn't look large.
I'm a small, short older person so I bag that is too big looks darn silly in my use. I borrowed a RedOxx Airboss for one trip and felt like a walking bag with legs. On the other hand my clothes and shoes are small. I don't need a huge carry on bag.
I'll be at a COSTCO in a couple hours and will look that bag over. I think I could use it as my checked bag.