In this bonus Ask Gus episode, Phil 'Gus' Gould dives into the mailbag to tackle everything from recruitment philosophy to Rugby League history.

We explore the 'Moneyball' philosophy - is there a secret similarity between the Oakland A’s approach and the current Bulldogs rebuild? Gus also gives his hypothetical take on who the Dragons should head-hunt if they had an open cheque book for 2026, and reflects on the incredible talent nursery of Logan City, including some memories of the legendary Tommy Raudonikis.

This week’s questions:

• Joshua David: Should the Anzac Test return?
• Michael Chariton: How did coaches get messages to the team back in the day?
• Back in Black n’ White: Does the Bulldogs' recruitment mirror the Moneyball philosophy?
• Neil Perkins: If the Dragons had the cash, who is the one player they should buy right now?
• Dale Ireland: Memories of the Logan City league nursery and Tommy Raudonikis' time with the Scorpions.

If you want your question answered, send it in via Instagram or Facebook to NRL on 9.

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Is this the wildest start to a season ever? The Wests Tigers are equal first, the Melbourne Storm have lost four in a row, and the ladder is completely upside down.

In this episode, Gus and Mat break down:

• Api Koroisau: Despite being one of the premier hookers in the game and a proven winner, Api Koroisau is still waiting for his Origin opportunity.
• The Storm Slump: Is the Bellamy era facing its toughest test yet?
• Origin Bolters: Is Jacob Preston the man to replace Liam Martin for NSW?
• The Points Explosion: Why nearly 50% of games are clearing 50 points this year.
• Injury Crisis: Does Parramatta’s bad luck prove we need a loan system?

Plus, we look ahead to a massive Round 7 where the Tigers go in as favourites against the Broncos, and we announce details for our Six Tackles Live Origin Special at The Locker Room!

Don’t forget the Billy Slater Podcast every Monday and Stories of Origin Season 5 coming soon.

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Phil "Gus" Gould and Mathew Thompson dive into the physical evolution of the NRL.

From the "diminutive" magic of Alfie Langer and Geoff Toovey to the massive stature of modern playmakers like 6'4" Lachlan Galvin, Gus explains why the "little man" is being blasted out of the front line.

Plus, a look at Nathan Cleary’s "majestic" form and why he needs an Origin series win to cement his legacy.

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