1 game can definitely skew the stats - I've had 1 game with 7 YC and 4 RC (A few years ago!).
This season - In 6 games:
3 RC (2 fairly nailed on dissent, 1 for biting)
And 5 or 6 of YCs - but 4 of those in 1 game (2 different fights off the ball and/or after the whistle, others for things like tripping), 1 player from either side went each time). But we also have white cards (think yellow, but for technical faults - no fine, no need to report and 2 white = 1 yellow) - and use these fairly quickly for repeat offences a "normal game" probably use 1 or possibly 2 for repeat offences despite taking the usual ATP steps. Captain understand and accept them - they are never a surprise to anyone - they always know what is coming.
Lack of management? Possibly, but also consider level of the refs each week. So it can also be due to other refs letting stuff (like dissent go) so when you actually try to manage it (and expect/need them to change), the players aren't used to it.
Also down to skill level of players (and language skills) - to react. I would say (generally) most my cards (+75%) are down to stupidity of the player (doing something needless, and obvious - stamping on a player in a ruck, who has already moved away from the ball).
And sometimes players just aren't good enough, or don't want to comply. And some players still have the "we might lose the game, but we won't lose the fight" mentality.
Anyone thinks they can not give cards in some games - you are welcome to come and visit the land where the French Spirit meets the Italian Passion, in a land stuck in the past, where Soccer influences the coaches, players and spectators.
