NRL SuperCoach 2026: Hookers [Positional Analysis]

What is up guys? Welcome back to the Super Coach Experience podcast. I'm your

host Brandon Savage, the coach of the Savage Berbers for 2026. Think I'm

rolling back with the Savage Burbos where I ranked really well in 2024. But

we are joined by two special guests today. We're joined by the winner of

today. We're joined by the winner of 2021, the Villammy. Timmy, how are you?

>> Good, thank you, brother.

>> And as you can see right next to him, we've got Mikey in the studio as well.

We've just done a jersey presentation with him and he's rocking the merch.

>> Yeah, it's about time and it's it's good to be back. I guess it's I wasn't on the podcast as much as I could have last year. Wasn't able to do the Sunday

year. Wasn't able to do the Sunday wrap-up. So hopefully new year, but uh

wrap-up. So hopefully new year, but uh obviously could jump in for one now and yeah, I wasn't really keen. Not that I wasn't keen, but like you know, too busy with my time on the EPL super coach, PBL super coach, but then soon as I'm with

these two, then I'm like I get real keen and excited. So keen for a good episode.

and excited. So keen for a good episode.

>> It's funny, we're on the phone last week. I was on the phone to Timmy and

week. I was on the phone to Timmy and then you called and we did a merger call. I I wasn't keen on talking super

call. I I wasn't keen on talking super coach at all, but then we talked super coach for like 20 minutes at least. Um

influence on each other.

>> Yeah, exactly. Uh first of all, Mikey, congratulations. Uh Jet Jet Clearary

congratulations. Uh Jet Jet Clearary Adard has been born.

>> Yeah, I was going to cop that.

[laughter] >> Yeah, it's definitely a it's a footy name, that's for sure. So hopefully one day Jet Art will be lining up for the Panthers, the Panthers only. So

>> it's such a Panthers name, isn't it, too?

>> Yeah, it is.

I don't that's not why I picked it and everything. That's [laughter] why I but

everything. That's [laughter] why I but um yeah, I guess I'll have to rock with it. But um yeah, hopefully I'm entering

it. But um yeah, hopefully I'm entering my first super coach this year as a dad.

So hopefully that will give me some luck for this season.

>> Hopefully you can be daddy of all super coach scores. All right, today we're

coach scores. All right, today we're going to go over the hookers. Um our

preseason analysis podcast. These are

the ones these are the big dogs where we put a lot of time and effort into studying the the intricacies of each player. And Timmy, what what have you

player. And Timmy, what what have you found? I I don't want to ask for the

found? I I don't want to ask for the players in particular, but have you found some gems?

>> Oh, I mean, there's a couple. I mean, I think it's pretty like black and white in a lot of the forward positions. It

just depends on um the minutes that they're going to get for the most part.

Um but yeah, there's a there's a little bit of like um gems, maybe a couple little gems there.

>> Mikey, uh your first look at team picker, what what was your initial thoughts? Do do you find it's going to

thoughts? Do do you find it's going to be a tricky year? I I think we've on the car ride here, we noticed the lack of cheapies. Hopefully that unfolds and a

cheapies. Hopefully that unfolds and a lot more comes about the preseason.

>> Yeah, I feel like most years I don't find it hard to put a team together on a team picker, but actually my first sitting on it, I couldn't complete my team in the first one cuz I don't know, I didn't feel 100% motivated with it, but I just was looking at some of the

positions and I go, I don't think all these guys are going to play. And I'm

just like, it was a bit tough. But then

when I did a bit more of a deep dive the next time I put it together I was able to put one I go you know what there's a lot of bit of value but I think this year will be different because the fullbacks if we get all these fullbacks fits can be very open and then on top of

that there's a lot of value in the second row and like you said not as many cheapies to start but once a preeason starts all these kind of outlooks are going to change so yeah I think it's

going to be a bit of a different year and um yeah like always I think a fast you're going to want to get off to a fast start so I'm keen 100% % I think the hook is is a position where you've got to get it right because you want to

spend as little trades as possible up front and I think there's there's a lot of value there but there's also a lot of whatifs. Um so we're going to start from

whatifs. Um so we're going to start from the top and work our way down. I think

uh as we go on we've got Timmy's black book that or Timmy's black book that's green that last year we utilized and I think we didn't refer back to it much in the season. So I think this year we make

the season. So I think this year we make sure we refer to it and I want you to put at least five names down today.

Yeah, I think I've got >> probably almost just exactly five names at Hooker. There might be a sixth name,

at Hooker. There might be a sixth name, but I'm pretty I've narrowed it down to >> I mean, I might open it back up. It's

early days. Like, there's there's a long there's a lot of more information to be, >> you know, handed out throughout the preseason, but yeah, probably pretty narrow at this point.

>> All right, let's go. The the flags are waved to Blake Brily. Let's start off.

He's the most expensive hooker at 654,400.

He averaged 54.7 before he was given the license to run midway through last year where we saw that game I think it was against the the Dragons where he was given that license

to run. He scored that ton. After that

to run. He scored that ton. After that

he averaged 81 for the rest of the season. My only issue is that that 81

season. My only issue is that that 81 was in the last 11 games. Is that his ceiling when middles are more tired and like teams are more busted? Are we going

to get that in a first six game sample size?

>> I feel like I already anticip I knew you were going to [laughter] you love the whole back end of the year play always go with that >> and look I don't think it's necessarily that I think it was more just an

indication of like all right you start running it's doing good for the side and you know there was other good things happening around it. They made big deals of about it in the press conferences

after game for about three or four weeks running about how well it's going and you know Brayley was even in one of those. I think he might have been

those. I think he might have been captain one week or something because of injury or something like that and was in there addressing it as well and yeah so it was a big deal. So I don't think like they're going to go oh let's just

go back to meat and potatoes dummy half footy for you to start the season. I I

expect him to continue running. You know what I mean? Whether

running. You know what I mean? Whether

or not it's he can expose it as much as what he did in the back end, who knows?

>> But I think there's going to be like an intention to continue with that because it was really working and he was playing better footy and so was the side.

>> There was one thing that coincided with he his run form and that's actually having a dominant middle in Adam Fenol Blake in the side. So maybe that's just the new normal once you've actually got a forward pack to roll off. Mikey, what

are your initial thoughts on Blake Brayley? To be honest, my my initial

Brayley? To be honest, my my initial thoughts looking at now at 650K, it's like it's crazy. Like in past years, if you wanted a gun hook, you have to spend bit more like more on that. So, it's

crazy that when you look at it, if you did want to go to the top shelf, it's only 650,000. But then that also alarms

only 650,000. But then that also alarms me. It shows how much the average has

me. It shows how much the average has dipped from previous years. So, is that the new norm? I'm not too sure. But like

if I was going to like you know what I'm like very rarely like I have started with guns in the past. Last year I started with Stling and I held Stalin the whole year and that worked pretty decently for me. So this year I do like

some mid-range options better, but if I was to I'd probably be more tempted to go Brayley even over Harry Grant cuz I I don't think it was a one-off. Yeah,

there was a part where he was playing for a contract. But the Sharks have got a roster where they're I wouldn't say they're running out of time, but I think they're if they wanted to hit a

Premiership, you know, they they're definitely within their window. Not saying that I think

their window. Not saying that I think they can win next year, but they're within their window. And

>> I think last year what he did worked for him. He'd be pushing to cement the, you

him. He'd be pushing to cement the, you know, New South Wales Blues jersey and all this. And to do that, I think he's

all this. And to do that, I think he's going to keep playing how he did last year. So there is what their draw is

year. So there is what their draw is pretty mixed. They start with the

pretty mixed. They start with the Titans. They then go to the Panthers.

Titans. They then go to the Panthers.

They then go Dolphins. And then after Dolphins, they switch to the Raiders. I

know you you say it all the time, Sav draw isn't everything at the start. But

when I am looking, I will have a look because if you run into Panthers at the start, you run into Storm at the start, then I'm going to think, okay, I don't think there's going to be heaps of points on offer, and then that might

alter my decision. But I I still do look at the teams they're playing. Like, and

to me there, that isn't too bad of a draw. two tough sides, but I think for

draw. two tough sides, but I think for someone in Brail in a hooking position, I think you could pick him.

>> Timmy, >> yeah, I'm pretty keen on him. He's one

that I'm sort of really leaning towards.

I've got all this extra money. I've

still got a million dollars in the bank after filling aside. Um, depending on, you know, how the cheapies all land. So,

I feel like I can spend up. I've still

got to add paint hash to my side. So,

probably take away 300k or something from that million dollars I got to spare. Um, but yeah, I just feel like

spare. Um, but yeah, I just feel like I'm excited by the upside. I feel like his flaw is going to be around, you know, I mean, he does put out the odd 40s, you know what I mean? And that

would suck early if you know, you've paid up 650 and it's not working out and he's going to start losing a little bit of money, but I think if you were just patient with him and you just stuck with him from the start, it's going to sort

itself out eventually. I mean, 2024 he averaged 53. 2023 averaged 57, which is

averaged 53. 2023 averaged 57, which is under his price point. So, he really does rely on him having that running game that he was having in the back end of last year, but yeah, like I mean,

you'd expect it. Maybe it is a little bit more just back and forth in the first couple of games like kicking and feeling each other out and there's not really >> which wouldn't be good if you've got all these bunch of mid-ranges, which we're

going to get to, that could probably score similar for 200,000 less. So,

that's that's the hard part. You got to think that he's got to come out.

>> So, then got to make that trade though.

If you've got one of these mid-ranges, you've got to then spend that trade and time it right to then bring in probably like a Brayley or a Harry at some point.

So, >> I think that's the key.

>> You can just start with one of these guys if you're confident enough. Like

I'm I'm definitely leaning towards him or Harry as one of my starters. I think

I'll have one or the other.

>> I know there are a lot of mid-ranges this year, but I I'm with you that I think going a gun hooker is definitely going to be a good option cuz that that like he averaged 52.8 in his first six

last year. I like to look at the first

last year. I like to look at the first six cuz re realistically if you get a mid-ranger you kind of need to compare them with what they're going to score with the other kind of guys around that period until you're ready to sell. Um so

I always look at the first six and he averaged 52.8. You'd be happy to cop

averaged 52.8. You'd be happy to cop that and hold him for the rest of the season and get that 81 in the last 11 games rather than making multiple trades across the same position.

>> You can imagine too that that 52.8 and did he average in the six first six rounds is probably the you know worst case scenario for this year if he was just to go out and do the same thing and not run at the start of the season cuz

he didn't run. So that if he does add a bit of running into that and then then that the attack comes off that you know then that then we're bumping up a bit more into that >> 65 plus where we need to be to be but

yeah and it need he did have quite a few scores in the 80s. So like from that round um 1 to 14 he had only five scores out of 13 over 60 points and then from

that round 15 that you spoke of where he went up to 81 average nine out of 11 were over 60. So that's

>> nearly all >> it's a good indication and it coincides with him giving a license to run and if Toby Rudolph's in the side then there's more runs there [laughter]

>> and he could yeah if he well and it helps just if he starts well and you paid up for that [laughter] we all want to start well and not just you know be fizzling around the 50 60k mark too. So if if you know if he can

mark too. So if if you know if he can just continue running which I don't see why he would as long as the opportunities are there he's probably not going to try to force it but

>> he's also come off an Australian tour which like I usually I'm usually against getting players but he didn't play a game like he was there for the experience. He can only get better,

experience. He can only get better, right?

>> Camp's going to help him for sure. And

like I said, this year he'll want to push towards that role. But with all that, I'm kind of on the opposite side to use. I don't want to spend up in

to use. I don't want to spend up in hooker from the start when there's so many good options. Last year, Stling went from that small role to then getting a big role at that price. And

this year, it's not just taking a mid-range hooker. I think you can only

mid-range hooker. I think you can only take them if you think their role is going to improve. And this year, with the ones we're going to get to, there's there's a potential couple that are going to go from averaging about 65 plus

minutes a game. some of them 80 at about 200,000 less than Braley. To me, that's the difference of getting another mid-ranger to a gun in the center wing, which I think will be critical.

>> And I guess that's the the the thing as well. If you if you're wanting to save a

well. If you if you're wanting to save a trade in Hooker, just leave him there for the rest of the season. Then you you kind of you can do it in another position where where there's a lot of other options as well. So, yeah, it's it's tricky one. Um, is he in the black book Timmy?

>> Oh, yeah.

>> Yep. All right, we're ticking him off and putting him in the black book. There

you go. All right, let's move on to Harry Grant. 66,300.

Harry Grant. 66,300.

This is probably what the lowest you'll see Harry Grant ever.

>> Very, very cheap.

>> I I really like it. 50k less than the most expensive option. Average 62 in 16 games last year. Had two games with sign significantly less minutes than 80.

Taking that away, that bumps his average up to 66. So, it's not much there. But

considering he had a down year last year, there were factors that played into it. I think with Ryan Papenhausen

into it. I think with Ryan Papenhausen leaving the club that shows more uh ownership on Harry to take more of a a role. Elias has left the club so Jerome

role. Elias has left the club so Jerome Hughes won't have that partner inasa. So

I I think it's a big year for Harry and Cameron Monster in particular for the Melbourne side and I like it uh 600k and it's only like we're looking at other options around 500k. If you can only

dish out another 100k for a premium option in Harry Grant, I like it. My

only issue is last two years he has started slow. Um his first six 57.2 and

started slow. Um his first six 57.2 and 59.3 average in the last two years, but that's already better than what we're talking about with Blake Brily. So, uh

but the year before was 76.7 in his first six. So,

first six. So, >> I'm I'm leaning towards Harry if I start with the gun hooker. Uh I don't think I'm going to go that way just yet, but I really really like the option. Uh Timmy,

where do you stand on Harry?

>> I really like him, too. So, if I definitely be starting with one of these two guys, I think it' be very unlikely that I won't have one of them. I won't

have both. I won't have both. So, I have to um yeah, with Harry, I mean 66k average only 62 last year. Every other

year prior like 2024, 2023, 22, 21, 20 was all 70 plus averages. So, he's like 10 points below like his average.

>> He's always above 700K.

>> Yeah. So, I feel like that's >> he has been sort of down ticking a little bit over the last couple of years and what he's averaging, but I I don't feel like he's just going to continue to >> down tick. I feel like that was a bit of

an off year. It'll definitely be up a bit. Um, one thing if you take out just

bit. Um, one thing if you take out just he played Pen and the dogs um and he scored 26 and 25 against both of them.

So, really struggled against the big defensive sides. If you take those games

defensive sides. If you take those games out, his average is 67. So, I know he's obviously going to play them at some point. Yeah. [laughter]

point. Yeah. [laughter]

>> You look at the opening draw and he's versing a lot of those big defensive sides. Like I know it's in the start.

sides. Like I know it's in the start.

He's got Panthers in the start. He's got

the Broncos in the first five, >> but he also has Par Dragons and the Cows in the first three. So, the first three.

>> No, no, no. It goes par in the first four. Sorry.

four. Sorry.

>> Oh, yeah. Par Dragons, P uh Broncos, >> then Cowboys. Yeah. But the issue I still have there is that like I'm looking at Par and I'm seeing an improved side from Paramea and even the

Dragons like I know they're probably not going to come out firing but >> it's not going to be like them sort of mid-season when the wheels are falling off or whatever sort of thing.

>> Like I just think like what Sab said with starting slow and then the like I think he's a good option if you're going to go premium but I'm just so unsure about that. I said it in the in the

about that. I said it in the in the drive here with you guys the store makeup. Yeah, they always come good but

makeup. Yeah, they always come good but I just kind of want to watch them for a little bit like who's going to take the lead. They've got no papenhaus and so we

lead. They've got no papenhaus and so we know for longo can do a job but still they've got to adjust to him being the permanent fullback. Now you've their

permanent fullback. Now you've their whole strike and their points come from Jerome Hughes and Lisi Catau that was used so much I see now Lardi who I rate but same thing he's now been promoted to

a bigger role if he gets that starting role. If not they could look at Jack

role. If not they could look at Jack Everington either way there's a couple new combos they've got to do. You could

then go the flip side of this and go, "Hang on a minute. Maybe the storm might be maybe Harry Green has to do more."

>> But to me, it's just it could go either side there. But to me, it's too many

side there. But to me, it's too many question marks. If I get it wrong and he

question marks. If I get it wrong and he goes 9090 and he just looks like a beast, like you said, if I went a mid-range, it's only going to cost me 150 to get him. In a previous year, you did that in a trade, but >> it was impossible.

>> For someone that blitzes through trades and that at the start, I'm not too worried about trades. I don't when I'm picking a starting side, I'm assuming I'm going to get a few wrong and that's okay.

>> Yeah, I'm sort of of the mindset that like if I'm only going to save 100k on another player that's a bit mid-range and there's less >> less pedigree and less, you know, you've just less big scores you've seen in the

history of what they do. I'd just rather just trust in a guy for an extra 100k more in Harry. Like it's pretty cheap.

It's super cheap. For me, like I'm like then I'm starting to go, do I want to spend 50k for that potential killer upside that Bill Brayley showed >> last year. I don't know. Well, well, it

depends which I'm interested to hear which midi around the four that you're kind of keen on.

>> Yeah, we'll get to them. I got two on my side currently. But talking about both

side currently. But talking about both of these, when you put them headto head, I probably pick Harry Grant slightly over Brayley after hearing both.

>> I feel a little bit safer.

>> 50k is a big difference. And to me going and want someone in the 400s, I just think with that extra 150, if you could turn like say uh someone into like, you know, being able to get a carazz with that extra 150 and he goes nuts from the

start all of a sudden then getting the mid-range is worth it. Like it's there's a lot of moving pieces, but nonetheless, you couldn't talk anyone out of picking Brayley or Grant from the start.

>> I think I like Harry a lot more. Um, but

like if you're looking at the draw, which I don't love to do, the the Paramea matchup looks really juicy round one but >> I don't think it's as juicy.

>> Yeah, I know. I know that. I'm getting

to that. I'm getting to that. Um, and I feel like these juicy matchups really early on, like round round two, it's a bit of a false narrative. If they got a good first two games, then there's every

chance that these less sides are going to want to come out and prove something while the better sides kind of warm into their season a lot more. Um, I kind of prefer someone to have just a a normal

draw the first two weeks and then let it open up after round three, four, five because that's when the scores start to open up a little bit. So, um, the fact that he is playing par, I think par

round one last year under a new coach.

They'll figuring out so much, learning all the systems. They're going to be a lot better this year. They're not going to put on 60 on the Paramata eels. I can

guarantee you that. They're at $36 to win this game. Paramata, I think there's every chance they win it.

>> They love they love an upset against the Storm. Like, obviously,

Storm. Like, obviously, >> Storm have got that first round thing though that they haven't lost for like 21 years or something like that. So,

>> yeah, that's true. Penov couldn't do it last year. Yeah, but Melbourne are as

last year. Yeah, but Melbourne are as vulnerable as they've ever been in the last >> They've been preparing for this from about 5 years ago, this game [laughter] >> pretty much. Um, so he's in the black

book, I would say.

>> Yeah.

>> Yeah. Yep. 100%.

>> Is he in anyone's side at the moment?

>> Yeah, he's in mine at the moment.

>> He's in yours.

>> He's not in mine, but I think he's the one that I want to get to for sure.

>> Jeremy Marshall King 63,700.

Uh, you done anything on him, Timmy? a

little bit like nothing too uh much. He

had three tons in 19 games like including a score of 99. Um he always just seems to average between 56 and 62.

So I mean he's really consistent and he's at that sort of price where if you've just got a good feeling about him, you're a JMK guy and there's plenty of them out there that just sort of love him. You could just give him a world I

him. You could just give him a world I think to start the year too and just see how he goes. Uh I mean at that price though, it's exactly the same price as Harry. I prefer Harry. I'd just rather

Harry. I prefer Harry. I'd just rather trust in that and then for an extra 50 I'd rather if I cuz cuz JMK has a great running game is like that's what he's got that sort of quality that um you

know what we love about Brayley um as of the late of last year but >> yeah I just feel like for an extra 50k I'd be rather trusting Brayley a bit more. He was so consistent he replicated

more. He was so consistent he replicated it week after week after week. So that's

why I'm like it's hard to if you're looking at three shirts in the shopping center and then there's like a [ __ ] he's kind of the [ __ ] shirt and you narrow it down to the two ones. They always say you should decide things in >> it's kind like you see two Bibong

shirts. One's one's $50, the other's 55

shirts. One's one's $50, the other's 55 and then you see a piping hot shirt.

>> Piping [laughter] hot, >> but but it's $50 as well.

>> Yeah. Yeah. I used to have a few piping hots.

>> Um he averaged 82.6 in the last six. So

once again the the scores opened up back then. But I think with the Dolphins, a

then. But I think with the Dolphins, a lot of their forward pack were injured throughout the year. They're going to be healthy come round one. Tom Flegler

potentially back. Dan Siti, Francis Mo, they got a bunch of good middles and uh it looks like they'll only get better year on year. So he can only benefit from that. But yeah, I'm with you with

from that. But yeah, I'm with you with the same price as Harry. What are your thoughts on him, Mikey?

>> Yeah, see the key is whether or not you think the Dolphins are going to improve on what they did last year. They started

so well last year and I I think they'll start well. Their first couple's not too

start well. Their first couple's not too bad. They start with I think they got

bad. They start with I think they got Titans in round two I think I was looking at and then they've got >> someone else pretty good Bunnies at the start and like even though you think Bunnies are going to prove I think it'll

take time so and then Sharks in round three like it's not too bad but like you said I think most years when you look at JMK you look at him because he's about 100k cheaper than the top hookers but

this year he comes in at the same price so it's hard to kind of pick him over Harry Grant even if you're going you know I'm just going to antipod Harry and do that like I just I don't feel comfortable doing so when I can get Harry Grant for the same price.

>> I don't think he's going to like exceed it. He'll he could do his job, but I

it. He'll he could do his job, but I don't think he's going to make money or anything like that.

>> There might be a chance that he picks up attacking stats, right? And Harry Grant doesn't. And maybe for the first three

doesn't. And maybe for the first three to five rounds, he does average a bit more, but I'd be surprised if over the season that he averages more than what Harry Grant cuz he you picking Harry Grant, you know, he's staying in your side all year unless he gets injured.

Even over the origin period, he's someone that you're not really going to trade unless you need to. So that's

that's that's the difference with someone like Hagen where Jeremy Marshall King, >> he gets injured injured. He gets injured a hell of a lot at the time and you probably know that he's going to have to come out at some point, but he's a kind

of guy I'd look at for good buy coverage. I I haven't dug into who's got

coverage. I I haven't dug into who's got coverage, but he's a guy that you probably look at closer to that period if their run's good.

>> Yeah, if you're expecting coverage talk this early in the preseason, we're not looking that. We're probably

looking that. We're probably >> going to come from me. Yeah, we're

[laughter] we're we're focusing on at least what the first 10 rounds at max up until magic round at least. Um Timmy uh Blackbook.

>> No, >> I'm just going to let the luck. You

can't have him. You don't want to be confusing yourself with too much. Narrow

it down. So

>> yeah, >> I agree. Connor Watson comes in at 574,000. He was very popular in a lot of

574,000. He was very popular in a lot of teams. >> Last year, came in and out. Um unlike

the other hookers though, he averaged lower in the back end of the season when wheni yellow um came into the side. I assume

with Robson coming into the side, he moves to lock. Um

>> and I just think that the minutes are uncertain. He might start at lock and it

uncertain. He might start at lock and it might look attractive, but then Victor Bradley is still yet to come into that side. I think it's round four or round

side. I think it's round four or round seven.

>> He could probably play on the edge.

Radley. Yeah. Then then you've got S Wong who is on the edge. Does he fill middle spots? I think that those three

middle spots? I think that those three split minutes.

>> Um it's going to be it's going to be a bit of a mindbog.

>> It could be exciting for him. The good

thing about with having Robson go to the club at least that locks up that Robson's probably going to spend a lot more time at Hooker. Connor Watson was better when he was playing at lock and he was a bit more having his ball hands on the ball. Y

>> so when you did have Connor Watson you'd like sort of be a bit just relying on the tackles maybe the occasional run until he moved out and you're like all right now there's a bit of >> Yeah that's true bit of >> craftness. So if he's just all playing

>> craftness. So if he's just all playing that role it could lift him a little bit.

>> I'm a little bit hesitant too just because of the unknown of the the minutes and stuff and maybe just been a little bit sort of not doing the job for me completely last year. Um I'm sort of just more interested in those like

Harry's and >> the guns mid rangers. I think he's just too awkward. He's too close to Harry

too awkward. He's too close to Harry like in the price wise. Yes.

>> Um it it >> 25k off Harry.

>> Yeah, there's there's every chance he's he plays number 14 when Victor Bradley comes back as well.

>> I was going to say that but the big thing too is au he he would become pretty like he was starting over him at some point and he's just he played in the international side this year. So

it's like what's his role going to be? I

feel like they've invested a bit into him. So realistically like Robson is a

him. So realistically like Robson is a 80minute hooker and then you've got au there now. Like I just don't know where

there now. Like I just don't know where these minutes are going to break up. If

they do pick AU then it's like okay >> so what's Robson going to do and then what does that mean for Watson? Like I

just don't know the dynamic and the break.

>> I need to see the dynamic. It's one that >> like the roosters lineup each year it seems to get better and you always go all in on them and then they don't perform as well as he did. But this year I think they can. But

>> even with we're going to get dragged into it every year. We're going to get to Robson at the Robson isn't the mid-range, but when we get down to him, like I don't know where the makeup of that side's going to go. I I need to know like even I don't think Charles

Trolls is going to reveal the answer.

But they spent a lot of money on Robson >> and he's an 80minute gun hooker. Like

>> he's an Oregon hooker. Like it's just a big question for me. Like what are they going to do? They've got too [laughter] many guys.

>> I love Robson as a purchase and we'll talk about him very shortly. But there

are so many question marks still around him just cuz of all the all the people in lock. If you gave me answers, then

in lock. If you gave me answers, then I'd probably start him as my main hooker and you'd happily save 100k from Harry Grant in doing that. But

>> you don't know.

>> Yeah. Um what's in a big no? I think

let's finish that off.

>> What's the opposite of the black book?

>> Um that'd be the red book, wouldn't it?

>> Red book.

>> Yeah. Like it's like the red. It's no.

It's >> like a red card. London soccer.

>> And cuz this one's actually green.

That's like the poor thing.

>> Green is good. Red is green. Green is

good. Red is bad. I like it.

>> But yeah, not saying he's not going to be an option at some point later. It

just depends on what the role cuz this guy's super versatile. But

>> more of an orange book like cuz it's not we're not really rallying match together. It's just orange flag. Bit of

together. It's just orange flag. Bit of

a warning warning. Like it.

>> Yeah. But I feel if anyone's going to be in the red book, it'd be Connor Watson just based on what we believe the role is going to be now. Like there's no way I could even remotely touch him at that price. Like you said, he does victim to

price. Like you said, he does victim to his versatility >> only because they signed Robson. If they

didn't sign Robson, you probably could put a case for, yep, they got Cherry now. Yep. He could be a good buy. The

now. Yep. He could be a good buy. The

fact that they've signed Robson, it >> I can't pronounce.

>> Yeah, [sighs] it's a tough one. I think

he spends most of his time in the middle. I I think there's every chance

middle. I I think there's every chance that >> he probably still plays about 60 65 minutes for >> an option, but you don't know because then you look at their young guys.

They've got Ste foretti like they are stacked of option Wong if they put rattling. They've got too many guys at

rattling. They've got too many guys at the moment like good young guys plus with their experience. So it's it's tough like good [snorts] good news if you're a rooster fan but just picking based off super coach I need to see all the minutes of these guys.

>> His last two seasons were pretty much copy and paste average um 59 and 60 each year respectively and then minutes were 68 and 69 respectively. So basically

same minute share same scores >> but now different back to roll but yeah it will be he'll be less at >> so it's price based on getting the minutes >> but towards the back end last year he he didn't get the minutes like he was

playing 45 minutes >> and it shows you kind of gives you a glimpse of what you could get from the start.

>> Yeah.

>> So I think last year he scored so well cuz it was based on what they had available with them. Now there's so many options that can fill his spot. Like

they didn't have they didn't have backup hooker like Brandon Smith was out the year. Now they've got three hookers.

year. Now they've got three hookers.

UL's come on three good hookers.

>> Yeah, exactly.

>> And they seem to like him too. That

yellow yellow.

>> Yeah, I for some reason I think he's going to play in the starting side. I'm

not in the starting side.

>> I think he'll be on the bench. I'd be

surprised. I'm not a Russ fan, but I think with the amount of they've invested he played for Samo was it this year? I think he'll be the 14. But then

year? I think he'll be the 14. But then

what the hell what like Robson is he going to switch into lock and then share minutes with Watson?

>> Potentially so much 65 minutes like Hany loves him.

>> It's a little bit handy. I like how they've got all that sort of cri it works for the dogs sometimes just having those guys you can just sort of plug here there everywhere it just makes you like any sub off sort of

>> and I know Robo loves to he loves to like all his middles he loves him to play edge he loves his edges to be able to fill in the middles like Nap Butcher Egan Butcher there's like there's those players as well who need to fill in

minute spots as well so uh yeah he's out for me um I haven't done notes on every single player I've just done them on the relevant ones so sting stling coral barrels. Nothing on there.

barrels. Nothing on there.

>> Yeah, I'm not too interested in stalling at the price.

>> I think especially with Brayley coming to the club, it's just like I know he's another headache. The same just seems

another headache. The same just seems like he'll be begging for more minutes over Brayley, I think.

>> But then Stling had such a good year last season. Has Brayley now become the

last season. Has Brayley now become the kind of guy that they're not going to use? It's it's it's a headache. They've

use? It's it's it's a headache. They've

replaced It used to be like when Danny Levi was out. Now it's like the same headache. It's such a weird signing. I

headache. It's such a weird signing. I

think they made that signing before Staling went on a tear, but now and then they resigned Stling.

>> Well, Stling wasn't going to resign with the club, but then he did resign. So,

>> he was in 64 minutes still last year, so he's still getting really good minutes for the year.

>> And he he has those big attacking games.

And you know me, I love Staling. I'm I'm

like there's no way you can touch. I

think Raiders will perform well yet again. But

again. But >> yet again, that's just another headache.

You've got to kind of choose these for the prices. Like you choose the clearcut

the prices. Like you choose the clearcut guys. We know the role. Harry Grant and

guys. We know the role. Harry Grant and Blake Brayley. You're spending that

Blake Brayley. You're spending that extra money, but you know their role.

>> Yeah.

>> These kind of guys are what 50 60k cheaper and you are gambling.

>> Yeah. Uh and like Tom Stling, there's no chance like he's resigned for what two years. There's no chance Owen Patty

years. There's no chance Owen Patty plays 15 minutes off the bench for the next two years. Like

>> he was so good too. Like they were playing Sting through the middle a bit.

So maybe that doesn't >> I would say I would say Patty comes on and plays 30 at least this year like with another preseason under his belt cuz like it's just nearly every game too.

>> Yeah. Just stunting his growth just stunting his growth not getting like especially the fact that Stalin was an Iron Man and never got injured like it you can't just leave your future

superstars on the bench like that. Um

>> and I I think they'll want someone like Patty to have with especially with the kicking game with Foggy leaving the club. I think yeah Owen Patty plays more

club. I think yeah Owen Patty plays more minutes >> and we just brush over Appy just a quick one on him like I know he's got to buy the first round >> that's what makes it hard if you didn't then you might be able to sell me a case

where >> he's got a mad draw it's bunnies paranas like all those five teams in a row none of them are like >> top eight material

>> the price it's there's opportunity with that draw too but the buy throws you off I'm not going to spend 526 on a buy in the first >> actually when I say they're not top eight material they kind of some of them are like I mean Paramite, Wite, Bunny's

Art probably too.

>> But to me that still smells points. I

don't think all those teams are going to become defensive.

>> The other thing to note on him is um Appy's gone like like scored like in the 50s and then in the 60s alternative for years. So this last year was his off

years. So this last year was his off year 55 and then so he's due for a 60 something average this year. He's done

it for the last like six, seven years in a row.

>> Talent to [laughter] [ __ ] the hell. Talender Silva come off the bench quite a bit last year. Are

they going to use that Kristen Hope or that that spare hooker or is he going to play big minutes? Like it feels like his minutes have been dropping off year on year. Is it going to continue like that

year. Is it going to continue like that or have they have they got someone there that can spell him? I want to see who they use in in the pres.

>> He's exciting too. He's got upside too when he clicks. He's just been a bit off the he's been in and out a bit. He could

be one of those guys that do sort of be he's a decent pod but at the price there still seem like there's better options.

feels a bit stuck in line.

>> The Tigers, they they need results and they're going to have to look at guys like this to get the results of all the crap. But with all that crap that's gone

crap. But with all that crap that's gone on the offseason kind of makes me weary about picking any Tigers ways unless they're cheapies. So I think just guys

they're cheapies. So I think just guys like this like I think you can quickly say that they're not an option now, but I wouldn't be surprised if we're talking about him as a potentially buy later.

>> Yeah, 100%. Uh Varys Wade Eaggan. Um

honestly like >> there's always a case of Wade Egan. I

know when he's not injured or concussed he's an option.

>> Yeah. So, I've written something down on him. Uh, I feel like I wouldn't have

him. Uh, I feel like I wouldn't have even considered it, but every year he's always a topic in this podcast in particular. He's a first five

particular. He's a first five specialist, averaged 70.6 in his first five last year, 67 in the first five in 2024, 80.5 in his first four in 2023.

But I think there's a difference this time. And I think Sam Healey um he Sam

time. And I think Sam Healey um he Sam Healey is someone >> freak man.

>> He he's someone who I'm way more interested in than Wade Eaggan this time of year.

>> He's a wild price though too.

>> He might he might have known kind of robot like >> he might Yeah. Whereas in the past Wade Eaggan has been an 80minute guy. But I

think Sam Hilly's played so good that >> I think he's the future but I don't think the future will be now. The

Warriors had a pretty successful year.

They're going to stay with that same kind of blueprint. And you saw last year when um uh Egan went down, Healey went in there and done an awesome job. You

know that if if a big injury happened, like if if say Egan got injured in the preseason and was going to be out for the first eight weeks, yeah, you don't even think about it. You start with Healey cuz he shows like when Harry Grant coming in as a cheaper, he went

from zero to hero. He's the kind of player that I believe could do the same.

But yet again, a lot of the sides haven't there still question marks of the position and that's always going to be a hot topic when we're talking about this far out from the season. But yeah,

I don't know if if if he is on the bench, I don't like any option. I just

feel like >> I prefer to go cheaper.

>> Those big averages you spoke of in the early part of the season. He had a big 110 in the round two which bumps that up. The only

up. The only >> worries went massive last year in the first 52. So can they do that again? So

first 52. So can they do that again? So

whether that's, you know, he does that again and then with most he had heaps of 40s and 50s. I just kind of pretty bought him at one point last year.

>> Yeah, for a while he did. He was part of the like the one of the reasons I didn't sort of kick on and do better.

>> And he was one of those guys that you were so mad and complaining about nearly every week. It was the [laughter] one

every week. It was the [laughter] one moment that he was like >> my two um yeah, probably my like biggest um heartbreakers for the season.

>> It was probably mine for the year before as well. But and this is the time of

as well. But and this is the time of year where he's always been a specialist. But that being said, like he

specialist. But that being said, like he he's only 70k less than >> I think just losing the AFB didn't help him last year to >> 100%.

>> There's many big big like opportunities to have that crush out.

>> Um so yeah, I'm definitely off him, but I'm keen to talk about Healey once we get to him at his price. Uh Damen Cook 526,500.

Him or little I'm not considering unless one of them gets injured.

>> Yeah. Then all of a sudden I think you got a >> either of them. Either weapons weapons.

>> S and Smith. very interested in. Uh

rumors are he plays number seven for the Newcastle Knights and they've been training that way with Dylan Brown at number six.

>> That'll be good cuz then Brown would get 5'8.

We we would love that. Uh he's priced at a 52, but without his bench games, he averages a 58. I don't hate it. Uh but

he might not be goal kicking.

>> That's what I was going to say. Do you

think he'll kick over Ponga?

>> Ponga, >> but Ponga is not a groundbreaking kicker. I feel like if Ponga was to kick

kicker. I feel like if Ponga was to kick >> crap or maybe they just go, "Hey, we want to take a little bit of pressure.

Don't worry about the kicking Ponga.

Focus more in play cuz he had a bit of an off year." And then maybe like if S and Smith had the goal kicking and all of a sudden, is there any other goal kicking hookers right now?

>> Not really. And I

>> know he's not going to be playing hooker, but you can get him with >> I think that's why I really like him because compared to all these other hookers, he's actually got upside.

>> That's why I like wanted Watson last year. I like the idea of having the

year. I like the idea of having the unknown upside of a player that's got his hands on the ball in open field rather than just distributing it. You

know what I mean? So

>> yeah, if he was playing halfback and he was kicking, I'd be super keen on him.

>> The issue about that is the Knights have options. Like last year they they

options. Like last year they they brought Brown and Smith over the club, but they still have all these other halfs. So if they don't perform,

halfs. So if they don't perform, >> the difference is new coach Justin Hullbrook. I don't think they're going

Hullbrook. I don't think they're going to play with the halves like they did. I

think he's getting 10 games and Dylan Brown. He might not even get picked.

Brown. He might not even get picked.

They could go Fletcher Sharp. They got

gamble. Hopefully he doesn't go down that game. But like there is a lot of

that game. But like there is a lot of talent there and if something's not working then yeah, you're probably right. He might give him five games and

right. He might give him five games and that's enough to kind of gauge and but I still thinking about that in the back of my mind. But

my mind. But >> yeah, Adam O'Brien was playing for his job. He was trying to win week to week.

job. He was trying to win week to week.

Hullbrook's a lot smarter. He's a very good attacking coach. He was the attacking coach for the roosters over the last two years. So, it's why I'm very keen on Ponga this year cuz the way James Sedesco has performed uh 600k,

can't wait to talk about fullbacks, but I think Sandon Smith like given this is going to be his team compared to last year like he's got everything to play

for last year, he he no matter how good he was going to do, he was always going to leave that position. Whereas this is his jersey to grab >> to bring the attack to the side too that they were lacking as well and sort of

steer him around which I think they I mean Dylan Brown's going to be help to help with that but he's a runner so they >> to be honest you're bringing up a lot of good points. I think if he's starting at

good points. I think if he's starting at half back and potential kicking goals is good because they actually like I know they didn't have a great year last year but they have a lot of good outside backs with potential scoring points.

They're just missing the conductors and him and Dylan Brown would make a good combo because it would allow Dylan Brown just to play his game. And look at how Dylan Brown played in the internationals. It's like I can't pick

internationals. It's like I can't pick him at half back right now, but if you went to 5' be a different story, but yeah, a half back hooker, I don't mind it. 520 is your main hook or 500 and 6K

it. 520 is your main hook or 500 and 6K and then you could probably stash you could go with that a mid-ranger at 400k.

I I'm happy to spend 900k on two hookers.

>> I'll tell you what I hate though, like 100k difference from having this going to be the main [laughter] road, right?

That's when I start going, well, I got excited cuz I'm like, you know, he's got that big 129 that he scored last year. I

didn't play him. All you guys did because [laughter] I had a better hooker in my side and you guys didn't.

>> So, you guys just had to play him and it pissed me off.

>> Someone had a buy that week. E

>> and we were forced to play him.

>> Yeah, I didn't have to play him or something like that.

>> I can play him.

>> Yeah. And so, like he's got that in him.

But then when you think about it for that like >> getting better, too. JMK had three tons.

You get two more tons for an extra 100k.

You know what I mean? Like the more frequency of putting out those tons.

>> The difference is Sandon Sanden only played what 20 20 games. 21 games.

>> 26 games.

>> 26 games.

>> Oh, no. Sorry. That was that's how many games he's played. Half back ditch what I just said.

>> Just to chuck in Cowboy Manly Warriors as their first three. Like I wouldn't say super easy, but that that does that isn't bad either.

>> I like the Knights versus Cowboy. That

matchup smells like points to me no matter how you look at it.

>> And you get him in Vegas.

[clears throat] You get you get to lock him in Vegas. So that's always exciting.

>> But also sometimes when the tactics push comes to shove, you might not want to lock that in 500k on a hooker when there's all these other like >> I think he's a nice option, but I think you'd need to be super confident that

he's just going to >> Yeah. What can you do with 100k?

>> Yeah. What can you do with 100k?

>> Because otherwise at the five like without goal kicking he averages 42 points at full at at halfback and it's had 26 games there with goal kicking averages 51 which is where he's priced at.

>> Yeah.

>> So >> you just have to think the club he's going to the difference like the roosters.

>> Yeah. Their attack was their attack [ __ ] than what the roosters was. Like

>> that's also a fair point because he was scoring so well because of the attack he was.

>> They got more pizzazz.

>> Yeah. But they've also got a lot more players that steal the steal the attacking stats off him.

>> No, but he's he's he's conducting it.

It's like he's not it's not them stealing it. He's going to be a partner.

stealing it. He's going to be a partner.

He's not a partner. He's either setting it up or >> But Tedesco is a kind of player like when he's on and he's on the ball, he does steal from other players. 100%. He

steals like no other player can.

>> It's the same as Pong. I'm trying to think of a good example for other clubs like uh who has gone to a club and got more because the side is less like let's

say Nikico Hines like did he get better going to the Sharks?

>> We definitely got more and all the first year was at the Sharks he was killing it especially super coach wise.

>> He had that in him position though.

>> Yeah he had that in him super coach wise prior >> still work like he went to a side and immediately become the conductor. We're

not saying he's going to be the conductor over Brown, but I feel like if they set two new halves in there, they're going to go, "Look, here's your chance to make a statement and they're either going to go boom or bust."

>> Adam Reynolds.

>> Yep.

>> Adam Reynolds better super coach wise at Brisbane.

>> He become the >> had less less to work with at the start, but he has more to work with now. And

he's >> probably feeling more flourishes. You will have

more flourishes. You will have flourishes of good games where it's like, "Oh man, there was he had extra couple of atrisis and kicks. If he's

kicking, he'll be like more goals in one game because they've smashed someone or whatever." But there is going to be

whatever." But there is going to be those low ones, too. It's like Adam Reynolds. So, I don't know. I I like the

Reynolds. So, I don't know. I I like the price. I feel like if he was Yeah, I

price. I feel like if he was Yeah, I like the idea of him, but >> you can just spend 100k more and you've got Harry Grant who's

>> he's also available at 58, a pretty troublesome 58 position. I think there's merit there.

>> You could even potentially go 58 cuz yeah the when you get into the 58 deep dive like that's a wasteland at the moment unless they start adding some jewels. So potentially you could go that

jewels. So potentially you could go that with the cheapy like I've got Cody Walker in there at the moment. I much

prefer Sanders.

>> Yeah, I've got two cheapies of 58 on >> mine. That's why I've got a million

>> mine. That's why I've got a million dollars in the bank cuz I've got two 200k >> cheapies. All right. Um he's in the

>> cheapies. All right. Um he's in the black book though I I reckon or is he in the green? Is he in yours? you I saw you

the green? Is he in yours? you I saw you write down. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. I I

write down. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. I I

think he was one that I didn't wouldn't have had in mind before it, but now definitely. He's someone that I just

definitely. He's someone that I just kind of pick up >> and I feel like a lot of people listening will probably disagree with the I think a lot of people think we're crazy. But

crazy. But >> I think this is the point of these. It's

a deep dive into players you don't normally think of. That's the whole point of this.

>> 100%. Reese Robson 497,400.

Very down year last year. um at a side like the Cowboys who struggled with middles. He moves over to a club with a

middles. He moves over to a club with a barntorming nfahu white. Lindseay

Collins, Connor Watson, good leg speed.

Spencer Lenu coming off the bench. Blake

Steep doing his thing.

>> Like the the Ford pack is night and day.

Like probably one of the better Ford packs in the compared to one of the worst.

>> He's got Jerry Evans and he's got Tedesco and he's got Sam Walker. Like

you look at this Bruce's lineup and you go far out.

>> That's my issue. Um, and as we talked about the role, uh, how many minutes does he not get 80 minutes? Cuz these

past few years, he's got 80 minutes and he he's still regressing a little bit.

Um so >> the difference is a side butt which could propel him. But I'm not.

>> Is there too many chefs in the kitchen?

>> I think so. I said it the exact same chat with the Connor Watson. I need to see the makeup. Not only see like I need to see how it performs and what they're going to do. They now bring in a different They've got a different hooker, a different half. Yeah, two gun

plays. But is there too many chefs in

plays. But is there too many chefs in the kitchen? Does it all work out? Yeah,

the kitchen? Does it all work out? Yeah,

I think it will. But for me, 497, you could definitely take the punt. If your

punt doesn't work, it's 100k to Harry or there's a couple guys that like are a little less than I'm keen on. But I just don't know he's going to get 80 cuz like I said, I'm thinkuh

is going to be in there. So like I just need to have a Yeah, I think he'll be very highly owned. I think when super coach goes official, I think he'll be up there as one of the most

>> the whole new club, new role sort of >> gun hooker going to potent to a a better club and a club that you look at that line and go top four >> and the it's the unknown of it where you're kind of like >> but as a super coach you digression you

look back and you go wait a minute there's too many hookers there. A hooker

goes down but even if it's just >> the main guy he's definitely their main hooker. He's their 100% their main

hooker. He's their 100% their main hooker.

>> He's an 80minute hooker but does he play does he play 80? Yeah, but he doesn't play 80.

>> Yeah, he might not play 80.

>> You'd say probably. Yeah, he might. But

like I No, >> but I feel like pretty close. I feel

like if he got at least 70, it'd be probably fine at that point.

>> Hooker and he's played 80 pretty much.

He's the last three or four years. So

that I I don't know if they take too much off him. He'll play very similar role to Connor Watson in the past few years, like 65, 70 maybe. I I still don't think you can buy him at that.

>> It's an it's he's an option, but he's not a slam dunk. He's someone that whether you might not put him in his book, he's on your watch list and you watch him. But I I just don't want to

watch him. But I I just don't want to load up on too many of these roosters with unknowns. More interesting than a

with unknowns. More interesting than a couple of the other guys.

>> I think in the past also we've been trapped into buying these gun players going to new clubs, especially like the roosters thinking they're going to get this massive uptick in minutes uh uptick in points and it usually takes a while

for spines to kind of gel and kind of get their rhythm together. I think the last one in particular was Brandon Smith coming to the roosters at 400k. The

difference with that is I think Reese Robson fits into the rooster style of play a lot more than Brennan Smith did at the time.

>> Seems like he's a smoother operator.

>> Yeah. So I I feel like he'll just do exactly the same thing as what he did the Cowboys, but just play eyes up footy. Like there's there's got to be

footy. Like there's there's got to be points within the middle forwards.

They're not just going to score points through their back. So I think there's definitely opportunities there, but it's the it's the minutes that worry me. I'm

interested too like like I feel like he's I don't think he'll underperform. I

think provided he doesn't get silly like a stupid minute just like you know 45 50 or something like that while he's finding his feet at the new club or whatever. I doubt that's going to be the

whatever. I doubt that's going to be the case. It should be at least 60. Um and

case. It should be at least 60. Um and

you think if he's going to play 20 minutes less he'll probably go a bit harder in that time as well too to make up like have a higher ppm.

>> It's true. That's true.

>> Yeah. So I'm slightly interested especially if it cuz we all sit there now and I'm sitting there saying I got all this extra spare cash but when push comes to shove and we're actually trying to fit in this guy who I now definitely

want in my center wing too and I also want this premium second rower and all this you then going where am I going to find 100k from and it's always hooker.

So >> yeah, that's true.

>> Yeah, that's when you could start going, I don't think I do have 600k. I've only

got sub five. And that's when you start entertaining these sorts of players then. And he'd be at the top of that

then. And he'd be at the top of that sort of 500k.

>> See, the only the other reason to get to is there's a couple guys closer down that 400 mark that I prefer because I think they're going to get closer to more minutes. And then if I'm already

more minutes. And then if I'm already not getting Harry Grant and saving 100k, if I can get a 420k player, then I'm saving 180k, which is a lot. So that's

that's that's kind of what I'm looking early just cuz I see there's a lot of like we're talking there's a lot of options here and the prices aren't too bad. Like you could take a pun on Rob.

bad. Like you could take a pun on Rob.

500's not bad. His best season is only 642, which yeah, the 14 points value there in in the price, but looking at these other options, like you're probably going to sell him to a Harry

anyway or or like a Blake Brily. You're

not really going to hold on to him the whole time.

>> He's going to play Origin most likely.

Yeah, Brayley could come for his spot, but you >> I I think >> you've got to assume, but >> if he was 100k cheaper, you could definitely entertain it, but there's not that much value there. Uh is he in the black book? Like I feel like he should

black book? Like I feel like he should be >> I think he should be just as like to not guard him all together and just have him there as like if you need him >> a new club like >> get a sniff around the trials. How's he

look?

>> Uh we've got to be out of here at 5:30 by the way. So So we have Yeah. Yeah.

[laughter] Um all right. So he's in the black book.

Uh Ben Hunt 482,400.

Not looking at him. Peter Mamemiselos.

Jacob Little. I mean Jacob Little's at a good price. Um, so obviously if the Cook

good price. Um, so obviously if the Cook injury comes through then yes. Uh, Sam

Healey 429. In games over 40 minutes he averaged 78.6.

>> He's not going to get those minutes though.

>> No. No. Like I said, if there was an injury in the season to talk about until there is an injury really >> if there is one in the preseason then if if Egan's out the first 10 weeks, I'll start with him.

>> He's the number he's the number one mid-ranger. It's not even the stats

mid-ranger. It's not even the stats there cuz like 40 minutes obviously limited game time. There's limited

sample size. It's just the eye test for But also the Warriors are performing in the New South Wales Cup. Like Penri just raided like four guys from that winning New South Wales Cup side. And these guys that are coming in now, they spent a lot of time there. They're guns.

>> And I think that you can also apply that to super coach because they're coming in and forming a winning formula.

>> There's a guy named Kehani going to the Panthers.

>> Lucky I was waiting for that [laughter] one.

>> U Mitch Kenny. Oh, he's not in the He can't be in the black book yet. Sam

Healey. Can he?

>> No. No. He goes straight into that an injury. If an injury happens, he's

injury. If an injury happens, he's straight in my side. No Freddy Lassic or no one like to to my mind Martin won't.

>> Yeah. Well, they lost two of their hookers like Khani Go was playing Lock, but he can play hooker. So, they've lost him as a backup and they've also lost Fred Lassi. So,

Fred Lassi. So, >> he's Yeah, both depend [laughter] >> but yeah, they've lost a bit of depth there.

>> Uh Mitch Kenny and uh Jake Sim 422700.

This tops off our K McGra best value for tax return option. Um, if you need a tax return done for $110 for a basic one, head over to caraggaracounting.com.au.

Let him know you're coming from our show and he'll sort you out if you've got something more complicated. But Jake

Simkin, he headlines the Kaggar accounting uh best return in your investment segment. Um, in games over in

investment segment. Um, in games over in 80 minutes, he averaged 62. That's all I got. Uh, he played 80 minutes late in

got. Uh, he played 80 minutes late in the season. in a couple of games. I

the season. in a couple of games. I

think it was like five or six 62 points.

That's exactly what you want from someone that price. Someone you're

willing to just let go of um as soon as >> Who else have they got there now?

>> Well, you're the B fan. Didn't they lose that backup hookup? What's

>> Gordon Chen come? Tommy is gone.

>> He's gone.

>> They've they've got this like >> Lachlan Cro's medically retired now. So,

like it just it's it all smells like a good role. the I think there's an avenue

good role. the I think there's an avenue that there's like this young guy. They

posted a photo of him with his dick out.

Did you see that?

>> The manly cop.

>> Yeah. Yeah.

>> No, they didn't.

>> Yes, THEY DID. I SWEAR TO GOD.

>> 2026. This is our content now.

This >> there is this young guy, but but >> Jake Simpkins the main guy there. Um

there's been normally like to have a backup hooker though. Like he sometimes they don't have one.

>> If they don't, they don't name it to me.

I have him on in my side.

>> Is he an 80-minute guy?

Oh, what? [laughter] On purpose?

>> No, that was posted by Fox League.

>> That's outrageous. [laughter]

>> Is he a hooker?

>> Uh, yeah. He's a hooker.

>> That's outrageous.

>> Male [laughter] hooker people playing at home. It wasn't the manly club that

home. It wasn't the manly club that posted it and like it's >> No, it was Fox League. It says an 18-year-old fresh out of >> So, you know, chucking allegedly and stuff like otherwise we get taken to court. Um, and you know

court. Um, and you know >> what it was just an action shot of a player just, you know, ball in hand.

looked like he's about to do a side step, but you know, >> also not in hand.

>> Yeah, the [laughter] um meat and potatoes are just sort of popped out the bottom of the shorts there.

>> But yeah, for me, he's he's one of my mid-range picks.

>> I knew I knew you'd be starting with him.

>> You for me, like he's everything like increased ro. It's like when I picked

increased ro. It's like when I picked Stling last year, I believe increased role. Man, have a lot to prove this

role. Man, have a lot to prove this year. And if he's playing even like 65

year. And if he's playing even like 65 minutes plus based on what he averaged last year, it's like Staling went into the previous year with that last five run games, killing it. started with him, did the same, and I believe Simkins done

that. He would have to get the roll. If

that. He would have to get the roll. If

there was a hooker utility, I'd be a little bit weary, but at 418, it's a good price. I said it in the in the van.

good price. I said it in the in the van.

I don't want to start with [laughter] seems s I don't want to I don't want I don't want to start with two hookers. Like,

you know, you always start with this bottom dollar hooker and you can't get rid of him. I like I don't want to have one of those. So, like to me, he's my one on the bench, but I Yeah, I like him. So what are you hoping for? Like

him. So what are you hoping for? Like

you reckon you play close to 80?

Probably pretty much >> play 80, but I'll take five minute plus roll and >> point points wise thinking you probably get like 55 60 out of him.

>> Yeah. Where if you think Harry Grant is a bit wishful thinking?

>> I'd say I'd say about 50. I'd be happy with about 50 at the start with an attacking stat here and there because think about it if Harry Grant like kind of starts a bit slow like that for 180k less. I'd be happy with a 50.

less. I'd be happy with a 50.

>> I brushed over him. Hey, I I >> I knew you would. I knew he was in your book and I think we could convince you otherwise. If he has a role that he's

otherwise. If he has a role that he's too cheap to ignore and I'd happily start with him over Harry Green.

>> There's every chance Joey Walsh gets a bench spot and potentially fills him in minutes a hooker, but I can't see >> they'll let him slowly potentially.

>> Yeah, I can't see him playing too many minutes. He's a genuine hooker and uh

minutes. He's a genuine hooker and uh they've just resigned him for two years as well. So,

as well. So, >> get him a role yet. The Tigers, we knew this kid was going to be something. He's

got to Manley. He's kind of done his apprenticeship really. And I think this

apprenticeship really. And I think this year they're going to need someone like him to step up and he passes the eye test. He's young, but he's, you know,

test. He's young, but he's, you know, he's past that initial, I would say, rookie stage where I think he's ready to take that. He's either going to take the

take that. He's either going to take the next step or not.

>> I remember when him and Little were sort of going neck and neck at the Tigers with each other.

>> I just think at 418 I feel like Oh, sorry. 422 to be more exact.

sorry. 422 to be more exact.

>> You're thinking about someone else at >> Who is Yeah. Who is my other hooker?

>> Oh, really? I know you picked you you thought I was going him and the doggies hooker, but no, my segue. So with so with Jake Simkin in 80minute games he played six at the end of the season. His

lowest score his lowest score in those 80minute games he scored 252s. So he

scored uh he scored 64 69 52 5273. So

he's pretty good average.

>> I was just going to say too is a nice price. Like he was starting to get to

price. Like he was starting to get to like that 490 where it's only 100k less.

>> 420 so like 422.

>> Oh I'm looking at his old price. You

know, when you look in super coaching, you got to look at 422. So, like, you know what I mean? If

422. So, like, you know what I mean? If

you're not taking a a starting gun hooker, it's a big price difference, man.

>> You could even run a Harry Grant and a Simp You could. That'd be perfect.

>> It's a meal. Like, sometimes you'd spend 700 on Harry Grant and take a cheapy.

You can do that, and I'm not against that. But for me, I prefer to do double.

that. But for me, I prefer to do double.

>> My issue is he played, you know, a few 50-minute games. 50 minutes for 39, 55

50-minute games. 50 minutes for 39, 55 for 39, 65 minutes for 29, uh 58 minutes for 79, that's pretty good, 69 minutes

for 44, 71 minutes for 35. So I think he definitely needs that 80 minutes. And

but the good thing is there's there's not much there to take minutes off him.

So >> mainly do have a buy in round three. So

the only thing there is if your strategy was have Simkin as your main hooker, I would carry a second mid, which is what I'm doing cuz you're going to need like if you're going to take someone that has a buy in the first five, I'm okay with it as long as you are planning for their

coverage.

>> You've got to because you don't want to take a 200k cheaper that's getting 20 minutes. [clears throat]

minutes. [clears throat] >> A big ask to ask like someone off his like where he's at like just now just play the world 20k. You don't need the world in a stable role. So like I feel

like they might have to find an alternative solution. Like they might

alternative solution. Like they might need there might need to be another guy that's younger coming through.

>> He takes the role and kills it and >> potentially but like they've resigned him in the offse. He's that they know he's going to be the hooker all preseason. So he's going to condition

preseason. So he's going to condition himself to to be ready for this and if he doesn't succeed then he'll be like they'll sign someone else. Like

>> as long as you take you don't go the second cheapy route with it. I feel like you can take a part on someone and I think he he will I'm not saying heavily owned but I think someone like um Robson's going to double his ownership

and it shouldn't.

>> I think he's a better option than Robson >> 100%. He's 70k less. He's 70k less and I

>> 100%. He's 70k less. He's 70k less and I think his role is a bit more sure. I

know some would argue no it's not but looking at it right now >> with the fact that there's less options that that's a great sign whereas >> and they they need it like they it's a position they've really missed out on.

>> No cherry either. That means do a bit more.

>> Yeah, I was just about to say that the the thing is no forward pack as well like the >> that is the killer too. They would need some more in the but at the end of last year we saw Nala and all those kind of start to slowly step up. I don't think

mainly your top eight side this year.

Sorry s like looking at it like I see there's going to be games where they kill it but they're just missing so much in the middle. But there's still always super coach opportunity at craper side.

>> 100%. They're they're not top eight side. They're definitely more of a top

side. They're definitely more of a top four side. So, um,

four side. So, um, >> I'm seeing a more eighth to 13th right now.

>> I mean, I'm I'm >> Tom can carry him on their back, but they're forward pack and they're missing Cherry Evans. Like,

Cherry Evans. Like, >> that's true.

>> Come on.

>> Tom's a big factor. I reckon if he's got >> he's fogged his air, but >> yeah.

>> Oh, we should probably move on. Uh, he's in the black book and

move on. Uh, he's in the black book and I think he's probably the best per I think he's better than Robson. Did I say that or >> you did say that? Yeah. Yeah. He's one

of my starting hookers. I'd be very surprised if I don't start with him.

>> Reed Manne. He was in my initial first team. He's actually still in my team cuz

team. He's actually still in my team cuz I haven't changed it since the initial team. Uh but 418,100.

team. Uh but 418,100.

I don't think I'll start with him, but he ended the season with a 42 average.

Finished at 215K, which is crazy. But he

only averaged 53 in 80minute games. Uh

had some 76-inute games with good scores, but I didn't include them in. I

think the Cowboy style of footy helped him, but once again, no forward pack.

But that being said, I think the Bulldogs kind of style of play didn't require him to be that um running uh spark out of dummy half hooker. I

think he'll be needed to do that a lot more at the Cowboys since they're more attacking style team and he kind of can.

I think a hooker can generate a lot of momentum since the forward pack can't do that. A hooker can and I think he will

that. A hooker can and I think he will benefit off that. So I I do like him and I like him at a fresh club. It's just

the forward pack that worries me. I'm

all over Reed Money. I like him a lot at the price having him and Simkins. You

can play both those hookers and it kind of they cover each other. The main thing you said like he's going there to be he's taking over Robson. Yeah. Big shoes

to fill. But I thought last year and I know a lot of doggies fans will agree me here when he was in the side like he sometimes they looked a bit better than that. I like Haywood but I just think

that. I like Haywood but I just think even though he was going to another club they should have probably played Mani a few more times. I think he adds a lot to a club and to be honest I know like man's the kind of guy like you're not going to see him become the highest

average hooker but I just want him to do a start at the start of the season.

Cowboys play a very heavy attacking side. I think that's going to benefit

side. I think that's going to benefit him. He's going to have to be well

him. He's going to have to be well involved. I think it will be an 80minute

involved. I think it will be an 80minute role for him. He's taking over Robson.

>> He's already come out and said he's going to play 80 minutes.

>> 418K. I'm happy to take the punt if it doesn't work out. It's not going to cost me too much to go up someone like Robson for me. Like I can spend 840k

for me. Like I can spend 840k and grab Simkin and Mani and grab two mini hookers. For me, that seems like

mini hookers. For me, that seems like the best. That's why I'm not spending

the best. That's why I'm not spending someone on Harry Grant. If I go cold on one of those two guys, then I find the money for Harry Grant. But I think there's I think if you're not starting with one of these two and they if they

get the roles we believe they're going to get, I'd be a little bit worried. I

think you need one of those two.

>> I hate talking about super >> I hate Reed. He's [laughter] a super coach. Like he's done my head in so many

coach. Like he's done my head in so many times, but really got to consider him like I think there's probably at least 10 points of value there. Like 2024 average 57.5,

there. Like 2024 average 57.5, 53.5, 2023 and then 54.5. So all mid50s uh dropped to 43 last year and it was just

the the minutes that really, >> you know, like he normally plays 75 to 80 minutes and it was, you know, averaged 60 by the end of the season with all that back end of the year. He

had lots of like 20 minute, 30 minute games and stuff there. We threw it out.

That's not going to happen. So he's

discounted big time. And the draw is great. Like it's Knights, Tigers,

great. Like it's Knights, Tigers, Titans. As much as we say, "Oh, we don't

Titans. As much as we say, "Oh, we don't know how much they're going to turn up."

Surely they're going to have some fun in that. Like the Cowboys like to they're a

that. Like the Cowboys like to they're a point point scoring team. So um

>> they are probably one of the best draws on paper to start.

>> They have storm that interrupt after those three easy games, but then they go Dragons straight afterwards, you know.

>> And Cas, no matter what, they score points. The defense is pretty woeful,

points. The defense is pretty woeful, but there's points and points is great for super coach.

>> Reed Marty might have scarred you in years past, but he's never been 418K to start the year as well. So,

>> yeah, you're trying to compete him against Atoring guy, but I remember at one stage I used to consider him like he was on par with like Harry and could >> when he were in fine form and going

really well the year they won the sorry, they got to the grand final like he was heavily involved.

>> Yeah. And I think we've like last year in particular, we went over his stats early on. Like the first five rounds,

early on. Like the first five rounds, six rounds, he always kills it. Like

he's always someone who starts pulls you in and then starts getting 35s.

>> But it's not like he's got this like went down in price and got this role just on effort. It was the fact that they decided to go elsewhere with him.

They've signed someone else at the club.

Oh, not sorry. They've like he signed somewhere else. They wanted to just

somewhere else. They wanted to just invest all into Hwood and then he's gone down in price for So this is someone where I wouldn't say he was a guy in the past but there's definitely he's fallen down from a price because of a signing

and now that presents opportunity for us >> more confident in him than Simkins. I

feel like it's more guaranteed that you get provided the minutes are there I feel more confident.

>> I feel like Simkins got a bit more base and it's funny how like I I said I like Simkin a lot more and the reason I don't like mine is cuz the forward pack but their forward packs are pretty much identical. Right.

identical. Right.

>> But the Cowboys forward pack isn't super super >> Yeah. They've got cotter and tamalo

>> Yeah. They've got cotter and tamalo still. So

still. So >> that's what I mean. And like they still have a like and they've got de and they've got drink water and like the hooker is going to have to tee up with

those two guys. To me I get like why decide on one of them when you can have both.

>> I feel like you're spot having two midis but I don't think it's for me. Like I

feel like >> it's a price but because one to play each week and one scores better than the other and that's a pain.

>> But at the start with how my side looks right now I would play both.

>> Yeah. And then you're going to need, if you pick Sim, you're going to need one to play when he's not in. Like if you spend 600 grand, you would play.

>> If you pick 600 Harry Grand and say you picked the cheapy, I don't think there's a good cheapy, but if you picked one, you're going to spend 830,000 roughly.

Right now, I've spent 840,000. So I go on two midis, I've got the same setup with you getting a gun and someone that's going to play 20 minutes on the bench. So when you're looking and then

bench. So when you're looking and then you've got two playable guys instead of one. Yeah.

one. Yeah.

>> Yep. And then all of a sudden it gives you >> awkward in my mind for me to be able to try to have Harry and one of these guys.

seems like too much spending, >> then you're spending a meal. But it's

still if that you can't pick a dog crap hook. That's why it's just a solution.

hook. That's why it's just a solution.

>> I was thinking something like Harry and cheese or um break Brayley and you know those sorts of guys, you know, like a >> How much cheaper? I guess we're running out of time here, but how much cheaper

is is Haywood?

>> Uh he's 343. Um I've I've looked at him.

I'll tell you about him in a second. I'm

not very keen, but I actually think that um this is where I went wrong last year is I went too conservative trying to get points from every single position in my side. I think to start off

side. I think to start off >> What do you mean conservative? So like a prime a prime example for me late I went oluatu to Gilbert and boosted up like I

think I had 300k guy on the second row moved it up to a 400k guy and then I got points from someone who wasn't even playing and then they didn't even make that much money and thenu got a ton and

then I was scrambling to get all >> trying to just get value you mean >> no trying to spread his value amongst everywhere like sometimes you don't have to get the >> massivest guy in hooker cuz if you can

get a a guy just a little bit less better, then you can upgrade in another position to go bang.

>> No, I'm I'm just saying if you go to mid-ranges in hooker that aren't highscoring positions and you're spending 800k on I know you're spending >> 800 and neither of them really >> Yeah.

>> the points in the Yeah. So

>> like most most weeks eventually you're not going to play both of them anyway cuz Hook is not a high upside position.

His argument is though at the start of the year you probably are cuz those big start chucking >> rather than some of these second rolls like Cole Hun and that we don't know their minutes yet. So I'd be more prompted to play two hookers that I believe are going to have better roles.

You try round one. If it doesn't work and that you see their minutes, then you play one. But like you said, Haywood's

play one. But like you said, Haywood's coming up. If one doesn't work, maybe

coming up. If one doesn't work, maybe you could go to Heywood. If not, I could go 80k up to like I know you want to try and avoid the trades, but I feel like they'll do enough even if they get around 40. It's not enough to say panic

around 40. It's not enough to say panic stations in a hooker position. And if

we're talking about center wing or fullback, then it's panic trading. But

in hooker, I'll take if 40 is my flaw, I'll take 40. If I've got another option to choose, it's not like my other guy on the bench is a cheapy at 230k that I have if like I'm stuck playing one of

them. That's why I like two. Yeah,

them. That's why I like two. Yeah,

>> cuz I can choose or I can play both.

>> Yeah, I think I'm leaning that way, but I'm a little bit standoffish just because of how >> I'm towards like I want to start well, you know what I mean? Like I do want things Is is

I mean? Like I do want things Is is hooker a spot that you can really dominate in? Like

dominate in? Like >> no, but if you get it right. I got it right last. You don't have to worry

right last. You don't have to worry about it.

>> It's about where you like have too many like you're losing points too. It's not

about where you all like about getting those hundreds. It's about when you get

those hundreds. It's about when you get too many like 30s, 40s there and you got three or four of them spread.

>> But if you get it right from the start, you can do more in other like you don't have to worry about it. It's nice not to have to worry about oh my hook is getting 30 each week. He's like oh he's getting 50 60 good.

>> Yeah. It's funny because we had this conversation late last year with Connor Watson vers Harry Grant. like they're

not going to score that much difference.

It's not going to matter. At the end of the season, it mattered. So, um

>> yeah, it's it's a really tough one.

>> All right. He's in the black book. He's

in the black book. He's [snorts] in the green book.

>> Who are we talking about?

>> Uh >> oh, yeah, he's already in there. Yeah.

Yeah. Uh I'm going to skip through everyone till Bailey Haywood.

>> Yeah.

>> Uh Bailey Haywood 343,900.

>> He only averaged 38.6 as the main hooker. Didn't play many 80-minute

hooker. Didn't play many 80-minute games. Um I don't know if he will cuz

games. Um I don't know if he will cuz they got Gordon Chen come tongked coming to the side and straight on the bench.

>> Maybe they can't fit him in probably carry utility.

>> Who knows? They might have a utility.

They've got >> Thompson rotation. Yeah. The point you made like 33 minutes 33 point average over 49 uh minute games these 33 points. So

yeah, he'd really need to be playing close to 80. But

>> play lock too. But but they love him man. They absolutely love

man. They absolutely love >> they love him. I think he's a good player. but he averaged 38.6 when he was

player. but he averaged 38.6 when he was the starting hooker last year. He his

average is raised from earlier in the year when he got the starting 5'8 role and that's where I like him a lot more running with the ball. I think his best attribute is scoring up defense and like taking on the line. I don't think Hooker

is his best position. I think he's going to be a good hooker for the Bulldogs, but I think as we saw with Remani last year, like even when he was the starting hooker that it was just dish >> and the dogs do have a buy in round two.

So if you started with him and then one of the other guys Manley, they have a buy in round three. So if you had Simkin and him, you'd be missing one of your hooker for you'd only have them both playing one out of one time.

>> That that could be a good thing. Start

with a Harry and have one of those guys as your backup in case or start with a Robson. And if it doesn't work out with

Robson. And if it doesn't work out with Robson, you can downgrade to one of these guys.

>> I don't hate him, but I just feel like I I wouldn't. He's not a slam dunk. At the

I wouldn't. He's not a slam dunk. At the

price, it's good. If you really needed to take a pump, I'd prefer to spend the extra 70k and just based off what I believe the other two guys are. I prefer

to do that. But it's an option if I need to skin some money. Like I don't think he's a bad option at the price because his role is going to be there. The price

will be good. And I think the dogs will start well. dogs. The dogs are they

start well. dogs. The dogs are they showed last year. Like

>> I think his men will have his minutes are going to have to go up. And if they can get get an extra 10 minutes per game out of him, then there's going to be value there. He's going to have a whole

value there. He's going to have a whole pre-season where he's working towards that knowing it's his role. Whereas last

year was just sort of thrust upon him.

You know what I mean? He's working out on the run.

>> He's a youngster. That's going to get better. So

better. So >> yeah, he's like this is my thing now.

You know what I mean? They make space for me.

>> He's cheap. It's it's it's really the I think it's out of all these cheap options that with Rolls, he's it's one of the better ones.

>> I I think the other two at 400 are a lot better. That's

better. That's >> that's my point.

>> You're writing something down, but I don't know if he's blackbook worthy.

>> Oh, well, they are because it depends like if some of these other ones some of them might not their roles that we discuss and go [ __ ] I think he's black because of the price. The price

>> you have to Yeah.

>> Um let's go through. There's not much else here to be honest. Oh, and Patty depending on obviously there's three hookers at the club so we can't until he gets a roll. Matt Arthur will be

interesting cuz I think at 235,000 600 I think with a new coach coming to the club there's every chance starting new.

>> Gun little hooker too.

>> Yeah, he's a gun hooker. So if he gets a start, he's straight in my side. Um cuz

he's like a very Harry Grant/ Owen Patty type guy.

>> Um >> and Brennan Smith.

>> And then didn't the Knights sort of get Har wait Harris Graeme? Who got

Harrison?

>> Yeah, they got Harrison Graham.

>> And he was from wasn't he from the Dolphins?

>> Dolphins. So Harrison Graham's 275. So

there's every chance they could run like a one-two punch combo.

>> I think a lot of these clubs that have the new coaches, we're going to get some >> where every chance. Look at the Broncos last year with Shasakin and then he ended up being you needed him.

>> You had to have him. So the same thing will probably happen next year with the new coaches. I think it's important.

new coaches. I think it's important.

>> Harrison Graham can play a lot of middle though. So I think he'll be like a bench

though. So I think he'll be like a bench guy. Um but I'm definitely keen. I think

guy. Um but I'm definitely keen. I think

Matt I just got a feeling like I haven't seen anything but I got a feeling that >> Brayleyy's left the club now. Well they

still got Phoenix Crossland there.

>> They do but I think he probably plays 13 with Adam Elliot gone.

>> Adam Elliott's gone. Um they don't have many middles to use at 13. So I don't know. We're just going to have to wait

know. We're just going to have to wait and see. Like we're

and see. Like we're >> like the bunnies bunnies and nights going to have a lot of new super coach opportunities that we're going to have to explore.

>> Uh Brennan Smith two games of 58 and 57 minutes last year for 38 and 39. Harley

screams anything great. 235,000.

>> I think he's a big trap. I know it's super cheap, but [ __ ] we'd have to see an improvement in roll.

>> Well, Bronson Garlic and Peter Misellis are at the club, so there's two hookers there.

>> Garlic there. See? Garlic.

>> Yeah, garlic's there. And then what did he play? 13. They've got Keon and

he play? 13. They've got Keon and Cameron Mari back. So

>> I feel like if they can get Cheese towards his best, he's like a good thing to have at their club. It's just a matter of where his head space is at and >> how hard he's working and things like that.

>> If he's coming off the bench and this new rule with the interchange kind of comes through, then that kills him as a super coach option. Can you clarify what that is?

>> So the new rule is you can choose six players to play on your bench and you only can use four. So there's two players that can get left out of every game depending on game situation.

>> Is the worst possible outcome for super coach >> especially if you're getting someone like Brandon Smith.

>> You have to pick more cemented guys that aren't like if you're picking someone on the bench kill you >> game depend you have a couple of backs there that you kind of like oh >> do you hear the other rule that was pitched the kickoffs.

>> Yeah that's that's shenanigans >> which is also >> I feel like the more I hear little whispers of that feels like it's going >> last year rules changed all right just let's write like there should be a rule that you can't change rules every year.

Last year was the best year of NRL that I I've witnessed ever.

>> Was it entertaining to watch? I reckon

the four years prior were way better [laughter] fan.

>> Yeah. But like I mean entertainment of each game you got. There was way more upsets. There was a lot more like

upsets. There was a lot more like points. Like it was good. I feel like

points. Like it was good. I feel like you don't need to change it next year.

The six pitch makes sense but like for NRL not for us.

>> It's good for the for the h I think.

Yeah.

>> Is the best for play. Well, yes. But for

us, no. Super coach would have to make an allowance around that if that was a >> we can use we can use depending on our team's makeup we can use [laughter]

that have to be like you couldn't be like oh my guy didn't get a run because >> they decided to use two back >> I already think this flex and auto emerge is or the the 17th player 18th

player dropping out I think that's I don't think that was a good thing to come in >> I don't I don't I don't hate it doesn't make I like it but it does make it easy for everyone. Yeah, it was helpful. It

for everyone. Yeah, it was helpful. It

was It was helpful.

>> I like I like having the extra player that I can pick him up. I love the fact we can have free fullbacks.

>> Yeah.

>> All right, we've talked about an hour and 11 minutes. Oo, Timmy.

>> Good sign. Can you read out the black book for us, please?

>> Yeah, black book. Um, black book. Uh,

Blake Brily.

>> Blake Bring.

>> Harry Grant, Sanden Smith, Reese Robson, Jake Simkin, Reed Mani, Bailey Haywood, and the Cheese. All right. Who's getting

the MVP for this episode for most surprising uh person?

>> Oh, Jake Sim like probably for me like cuz I just put a line through him in my mind.

>> For me it's Sandon.

>> Sandon. I'd give it to Sandon as well.

Mainly the difference here is me and you both had Simkin in the sides. But the

fact is Sandon someone that I walked in here and didn't consider. And I guess that's why Timmy's picking him because we walked in didn't consider him now.

>> Exchange of uh information there.

[laughter] Let's um let's continue that vibe with the MVPs. We'll vote for it every episode and then we'll have a team to start the year and just see how it goes to start the year.

>> MVPs. Well, you better put in your notes.

>> Yeah. Well, it is in my notes. I've

already >> Yeah, do that an MVP and like let's see how the MVPs are. That's a good idea.

>> And if you're watching on YouTube or on the the Spotify or whatever, comment >> on the sound. [laughter]

Comment who you think the MVPs should be uh for the episode. I think Sandon will be a landslide win. I think I think a lot of people would not agree with the sand and >> Yeah, probably. Probably

>> they won't, but like there's always Yeah, that's the point of this.

>> Yeah. Um, we have much more content over on the Patreon, so head to the Patreon link in the comments. Uh, but that's it for us today. Thanks for coming on, Mikey. Hopefully, we see you soon cuz I

Mikey. Hopefully, we see you soon cuz I think that was great. That was a great episode.

>> As I said, if I can make this a [laughter] weekly thing with you, I'd love to, but like I said, like I just got to see you in the new year. But I'm

going to try and make my face more sh whether it's with you guys or on a little episode during the week. We'll

we'll do something. You'll hear more.

me. We'll see you next week for Front Row Forwards. It's my favorite episode

Row Forwards. It's my favorite episode every year.

>> Is it really?

>> Oh, you There's a lot you can get out of it based on minutes and rolls.

>> Hot tip. Hot tip.

>> Just trying to like keep the listeners hooked into next week.

>> Stay tuned for next week.

>> He says that about all the positions.

>> All right. Thank you for tuning in and we'll see you next week.