Ya Know...I'm leaning toward the Cam Lobes myself.
Reason being-
Did you use an Oil with Adequate Zinc??
Not trying to advertise, but I've seen a couple of 2.2's and at least 1 small block with wiped out lobes because of the newer 'ecologically sound' oils that don't have enough Zinc in them.
I run Rotella in my cars now- save for my Stratus which has a factory roller cam.

Real important in this day and age to know what the ^($*&% they are doing for the 'enviroment'.

Good luck with it!
CC.