Six Tackles With Gus

Gus dissects the Origin decider and explains why he believes Queensland have enough to question the Blues, listen and find out who he thinks can pull this big moment off. Plus Gus is joined by a surprise former Origin star he used to coach. 00:00 - Welcome  Gus’ mail is that all NSW will play The main concern is Payne Haas 03:00 - Queensland Where does Shibasaki’s inclusion rank in terms of surprise selections? Underdogs  09:30 - New South Wales Blues will win comfortably  11:30 - #AskGus Difference between preparing for Game 1 vs Game 3 Wet and greasy conditions on Wednesday night Origin can do funny things to you 29:00 - Special Origin Surprise Guest 59:00 - Ampol Power Sure  Origin predictions  1:01:30 - Round 19 preview and tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's #AskGus Questions; What are important qualities for a coach to succeed? What position is most important to fill first for the Bears? Is Connor Tracey underrated?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus backs Billy’s Maroon’s Origin selections and reflects on where the Blues went wrong in Game 2. He declares the Dolphins a genuine top-four contender, rates the Warriors’ Barnett injury as a bigger blow than Metcalf’s. Plus, footy’s best venues, NRLW updates, and Round 18 predictions.   00:00 - Welcome  05:30 - Yes No No No No 05:50 - Bulldogs Panthers was game of the year 14:30 - Can Dolphins finish in the top 4 21:40 - No Metcalf = No Warriors premiership 24:45 - Big Papa’s selection is an inspired choice 25:00 - State of Origin Gus on Game 2 Hammer an inspired choice at fullback Gus on bringing back players out of retirement 39:00 - 1992 Origin series  43:00 - Sharks woes 48:00 - Ampol Power Surge Top 3 venues to watch the footy  54:00 - NRLW 57:00 - Round 18 tips  1:04:00 - Australian coaching jobSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Freddy’s in the hot seat this week, filling in for Gus and joining Mat Thompson to preview the Origin decider and share his thoughts on the Australian coaching job. He also unpacks the Panthers’ dynasty chances, a possible rookie of the year bolter in Isaiah Iongi, and why Selwyn Cobbo needs a cuddle, not a rocket. Freddy opens up about nearly signing with the Eels, playing through appendicitis, and what it was like on tour in England during the World Cup. There’s chat about the Sharks’ halves, Manly’s backline reshuffle with Tommy Turbo, and a bold rule change Freddy would introduce next season. Plus, his proudest Origin debut moment, toughest opponents, and the rivalries that still give him chills. 00:00 - Welcome  Special Guest: Freddy!  Beanies for Brain cancer Origin decider - any changes? 05:30 - Yes No No  Panthers can win a fifth premiership  Isaiah Iongi can win rookie of the year Time to change the Sharks halves 11:15 - Selwyn Cobbo contract 15:1

Live from Perth, Gus dissects the Queensland Maroons' Game 2 selections, admitting, "I'm not sure they've addressed the problem" with a forward pack that "doesn't make sense to me." Gus also weighs in on Jarome Luai’s inclusion making NSW "stronger," the crucial role of Kurt Mann, and Kalyn Ponga's impact. He dives deep into the mental side of Origin, answers listener questions on Billy Slater's job and NSW's biggest dangers, and gives his final predictions for the match. 00:00 - Welcome  Live from Perth  Perth Bears Poor schedule for Panthers this weekend Lightning delay in Bulldogs Souths game Round 15 results  04:00 - QLD Perth form wont matter QLD changes: Capewell into team  Gus is not sure QLD have addressed the issues from Game 1 11:30 - NSW Mitch Moses out, Jarome Luai in Max King starting, Stefano to bench 22:00 - Kurt Mann  24:00 - Kalyn Ponga 26:00 - The mental side of the game 30:00 - #AskGus Pat Carrigan to the bench Is Billy’s job in trouble if they lo

In this episode of #AskGus, Gus opens up about the May brothers and what Taylan’s signing means for the Tigers' future. He dives deep into the Warriors’ rise as a powerhouse club and why their success story is just beginning. Plus, who picks the roommates on tour? Gus shares one of rugby league’s funniest rooming mishaps involving Tommy Raudonikis and Steve Mortimer. Proudly brought to you by TAB.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus weighs in on the State of Origin captaincy debate and the shock decision to omit Daly Cherry-Evans from the Queensland squad. He also shares his strong views on the Dolphins' fearless approach to the competition, and offers a passionate warning to buckle up for the Warriors' rise.  00:00 - Welcome  Mat in Adelaide for swimming Kikau let off at match judiciary 03:30 - Yes, No No No No No! Adam O’Brien’s comments about the Knights fans was not needed Kai Pearce-Paul is a great acquisition for the Tigers The Panthers are coming 18:30 - Origin Game 2 Cam Munster captaincy  Dearden in for DCE Blues side 29:00 - Ampol Power Surge  35:30 - Round 15 PreviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this #AskGus ep of Six Tackles Gus praises Wayne Bennett’s masterclass in coaching under pressure, reflects on Penrith’s gritty path back to finals contention, and shuts down a wild Origin rumour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus breaks down the Broncos’ ongoing struggles, calling out how they can be their own worst enemy. He weighs in on Lachlan Galvin’s impact since joining the club, has his say on Origin II selections, unpacks the new Kangaroos coaching gig, and shares fresh insights into the Trbojevic brothers’ contract talks. 00:00 - Welcome  04:00  - Broncos woes 11:20 - Yes No No No  24:45 - Lachlan Galvin 30:30 - Jake and Tom Trbojevic  37:40 - Gus’ Sporting Goats & NRL questions  46:10 - Trump x Seinfeld   49:35 - Round 14 preview  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in 1994, Phil Gould’s Blues stunned Queensland by winning a decider at Lang Park - a feat unmatched for nearly two decades. Then came Game 3, 2024. It was brutal. Tryless for over an hour. Every inch hard-fought. Then, with the series in the balance, Bradman Best crashed through - pure power, pure Origin. Madge’s Blues had done it again. History repeated. A dream decider. Featuring - Bradman Best, Ben Hunt, Phil Gould, Mark Geyer, Andrew Johns, Jonathan ThurstonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus breaks down New South Wales' dominant performance in the State of Origin opener, with a deep dive into the effectiveness of their right-side attack and the halves' control. They also touch on the Women's Origin, discuss the impact of Max King, and answer listener questions, including potential changes for Queensland in Game 2. Plus, a tribute to Fatty, and a preview of the upcoming NRL round.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lang Park. Suncorp Stadium. Call it what you like - it’s hallowed ground. The kind of place where Queensland legends are made. Where the spirit of Origin greats like Beetson, Jackson, and Tosser Turner lingers in the air. In this episode of Stories of Origin: Magic Moments, we rewind to Game 3, 2022 - a decider for the ages. With just under two minutes on the clock and the series on the line, New South Wales launch one last desperate raid… until Ben Hunt steps in. He’s not flashy. But he’s pure heart. And in that moment - with the GOAT Cam Smith watching on - the Dozer delivers. Queensland erupt. Suncorp explodes. The Maroons reclaim the shield. This is the story of Ben Hunt’s heroic Origin moment - and one of the greatest decider finishes we’ve ever seen. Go Dozer! Featuring Ben Hunt, Billy Slater and Johnathan Thurston.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus and Thomo discuss all things Origin including the selection of Robert Toia and how it is an “inspired” choice from Billy Slater.  Gus blows up at the announcements of the Origin teams and how for years he has been saying it needs to be a special event on a Sunday night.  Reece Walsh is in the headlines for a video as Gus discusses the impact of social media and the evolving culture among players.  Some great yarns on Andrew Walker, Tommy Radonikous, James Packer and Elton John. Plus, Gus’s tips for Round 12 all thanks to the TAB! 00:00 - Welcome  Laurie Daley and NSW Reece Walsh viral video Gus and social media 15:00 - Yes No No  Marky Mark’s try is in the conversation for greatest of all time  Billy Slater will make changes to his forward pack for kick off  The Blues will win at Suncorp again 27:45 - Origin chat Wingers Forwards Backline Robert Toia 47:30 - #AskGus  01:00:00 - Trivia 01:01:00 - Cattledog 01:07:30 - Lachlan Galvin 

After five painful years of Maroon dominance, 1985 was the year New South Wales said “enough.” They turned to Canterbury’s fearless halfback Steve “Turvey” Mortimer - a man with blue blood and an unbreakable will - to lead the charge. From stirring pre-game speeches to that unforgettable chair-lift off the SCG, Mortimer’s passion and grit didn’t just win a series - he rewrote Origin history and brought the Blues their first ever series win. Sometimes, you’ve just gotta want it more. Featuring Laurie Daley, Mark Geyer, Andrew Johns, Peter Wynn, David Middleton and Roy Masters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus dissects a number of potential Blues’ selection calls ahead of teams being announced, including the halves and wing spots. Praise for the Women’s NSW Origin team after taking out the series in Sydney.  Can the Tigers bounce back from their disastrous loss to the Storm last week, and is Mal Meninga the man to lead the Perth Bears?  Plus Gus’ Round 11 tips, proudly brought to you by TAB.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's episode of Six Tackles will be released on Friday the 16th of MaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you need to understand Origin in just one moment, it’s the closing minutes of Game One, 1994. The Blues were cruising - 10 points up with 10 to play - until a wave of maroon belief swept the Sydney Football Stadium. Alfie Langer to Kevvy Walters, Michael Carne joins, Renouf streaks down the touchline, Hancock keeps it alive, Darren Smith inside, back to Alfie… BIG MAL sets the stage, and from nowhere Mark Coyne dives for the corner: “Queensland is never beaten!” In this episode of Stories of Origin, relive the chain‑reaction of passes that produced one of rugby league’s greatest tries and forged a mantra that still defines the Maroons. Hear first‑hand reflections on the pressure, the precision, and the pure Queensland spirit behind the Miracle Try - because when it’s Origin, it’s never over.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus picks his NSW pack and addresses rumours about Spencer Leniu.  Brandon Smith is set to join Souths right away - Gus wonders why the Roosters let him walk.  Dom Young is being shopped around and wants to play centre, while David Fifita’s big pay‑packet has him stuck in reserve grade and Gus has some advice for what he does next. Plus Six Tackles Trivia and don’t miss Gus’ Round 10 tips. 00:00 - Fresh off 7/8 tips in Magic Round. 12:30 - Yes! No, No, No, No. Brisbane to stay hosting Magic Round? Simaima Taufa is the best player in the Women’s game? Jayden Su’A’s bombed try was one of the worst? Kaeo Weekes is the next Billy Slater? 24:30 - Brandon Smith to sign with South Sydney effective immediately 29:00 - Dom Young being shopped around. 34:00 - David Fifita in reserve grade. 49:00 - Gus’s NSW forward pack for Origin one   01:03:00 - Six Tackles Trivia 01:04:30 - Round 10 preview & Gus' Tips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform

A series decider at ANZ Stadium. The Blues teetered on the brink, heartbreak hanging over Homebush once more - until one breathtaking chain of passes rewrote Origin folklore. Relive the frantic final minute: Cordner to Murray, Pearce punching through the line, Trbojevic unleashing Ferguson on white-knuckle tippy-toes down the sideline, and - like lightning - James “Teddy” Tedesco diving over to clinch NSW’s first back-to-back crown since 2005. Buckle up for the play that stunned Queensland and carved Teddy’s name into Origin legend. Game 1 of the 2025 State of Origin series is live and exclusive on Nine & 9Now, Wednesday 28 May.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gus cant get his head around the rumours swirling that Daly Cherry-Evans could be on his way to Roosters with all the young halves they have. Gus and Mat discuss the expansion to the West and how it wont be easy recruiting big names over.  Gus also gives a rare insight into his coaching career, discussing the emotional challenges of handling losses and the importance of maintaining emotional control during games. He emphasises the significance of mental toughness and attitude control in sports, sharing insights on how to teach players to focus on the present and trust the process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.