how would the PF not be flying pitch, power and artificial horizon/attitude indicator?
Because pilots are human beings and can be easily distracted, fooled by senses, etc.
If you have some flight experience - grab some good book on aircraft accidents like for example "Aftermath" (it's written for pilots), it should open your eyes what human pilots (regardless of experience level) are capable of. I would make it a mandatory reading for any private pilot. Perhaps this would "un-confuse" you or confuse even more ...