Six Tackles With Gus

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.

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.

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.

This week on Six Tackles with Gus, Phil Gould reveals the startling results on a team after a loss to Penrith.  As we head into a massive Easter Long Weekend of footy, Gus weighs in on the Brookvale dramas as pressure mounts at Manly and questions whether Shane Flanagan is already on the chopping block at the winless Dragons. Plus, we look ahead to the annual Good Friday blockbuster between the Rabbitohs and Bulldogs at Accor Stadium, discuss why Newcastle’s rise is a coaching masterstroke, and Gus shares a surprising story about interviewing Kieran Foran for a coaching role.

Your Ask Gus Questions. Gus breaks down whether Tannah Boyd is the most improved player in the game right now, and what’s behind his rise. He looks at the Tigers’ chances without Jarome Luai and Adam Doueihi. There’s pressure talk too. Should Shane Flanagan be feeling the heat? And could tensions between Gorden Tallis and the Broncos faithful really be sorted over a beer? Plus, a look ahead at the future of the game. What does the NRL look like in 10 years? How might the season structure evolve, and what challenges could things like travel and fuel costs create? And one of the big debates in the modern game, suspensions versus fines. Has Gus changed his stance? If you want your question answered, send it in via Instagram or Facebook to NRLonNine.

Coaching drama has exploded just three rounds into the season as the Broncos are rocked by the sudden exit of assistant Ben Te’o, raising fresh questions about leadership and stability at Red Hill. Gus unpacks the situation, what could be happening behind the scenes, and why differences of opinion inside coaching groups are not only common, but necessary. As Gus puts it, you can’t be a yes man to the head coach, and leadership often means making calls that don’t make everyone happy. Elsewhere, the pressure is building fast. Are the Roosters and Trent Robinson heading for a defining moment against Manly? Will Daly Cherry-Evans get a hostile reception at Brookvale? And are the Sharks at risk of going stale after years with the same core? Plus, a big Yes No No No No No, Panthers tactics under the microscope, Souths’ return to Allianz, and a full Round 4 preview thanks to TAB.

Gus and Mat reflect on an emotional night at Allianz Stadium where Alex Johnston made history by breaking the all-time try-scoring record. Gus shares his personal memories of watching the legendary Ken Irvine and discusses what makes "AJ" such a special part of the South Sydney club. Plus, Tigers Time: Gus is impressed by the team cohesion the Wests Tigers are currently building. Ask Gus: Can Manly turn it around? Round 3 Preview: Analysis of every game, including the Bulldogs' trip to Canberra and the clash between the red-hot Warriors and the Knights. The "Claudette" Report: AI analysis of Gus's busy week on social media. NRL Judiciary & Fines: Gus sounds off on the current system of player fines and why he believes it's way over the top. Multicultural Round Trivia: Who was the first PNG-born player to debut in the NRL?

Phil Gould is back from Las Vegas after seeing the Eagles at the Sphere and breaks down the big statements from Round 1, the Raiders’ hot start, and whether Alex Johnston is about to make NRL history. Plus  a Tigers young gun debut, your Ask Gus questions, and Round 2 tips thanks to TAB.

In this episode of Six Tackles with Gus, Mathew Thompson and Phil "Gus" Gould dive into the final preparations for the historic 2026 NRL season opener in Las Vegas. Gus shares behind-the-scenes insights into the Bulldogs’ massive logistical undertaking to move their entire staff and roster stateside, the evolving rivalry with the Dragons, and why he believes the Vegas venture is vital for the game's international future. The duo also analyses the latest player movements - including high-profile signings at the Roosters and Dolphins, and Gus lays out his fearless predictions for the Top 4 contenders and the breakout stars to watch this year.

We’re back, baby, and it’s Season Ten of Six Tackles with Gus. Live from The Locker Room at Olympic Park, Phil Gould opens the milestone season with a massive breakdown of the NRL’s biggest off-season changes, from revamped Origin eligibility rules to new rules. Gus digs into what it all means for stars like Kalyn Ponga, Jahrome Hughes and Addin Fonua-Blake and more. There’s also plenty on player movements, squad expansions, trainer restrictions, and how these tweaks could reshape the competition in 2026. It’s the start of our tenth season, with some big surprises for you to get involved, and another year of Gus cutting through the spin, thanks to TAB. Season Ten starts now.

Phil Gould is out, and rugby league legend Darryl 'The Big Marn' Brohman is in for a massive Grand Final preview! Brohman joins Mat Thompson to dive deep into the Storm vs. Broncos decider, focusing on the key match-ups: Harry Grant to be the difference, Stefano Utoikamanu's rise, and the unstoppable Payne Haas. The Big Marn tackles the infamous 'Yes No No' segment, debating the Panthers dynasty, Reece Walsh's Kangaroos chances, and whether Craig Bellamy is the greatest coach ever. Plus, the boys analyze the Dally M Awards, The Big Marn picks his Team of the Year, and they wrap up with the Ampol Power Surge's Top 3 Grand Finals. 00:00 - Welcome  Special guest ‘The Big Marn’  08:45 - Yes No No  09:00 - Penrith will win more comps in the next 3 years..  11:00 - Walsh is one more game away from an Australian jersey.. 13:00 - Teddy will win the Dally M..  14:00 - Bellamy is the games greatest ever coach..  17:00 - Grand Final preview Harry Grant to be the difference  Stefano going from spoon to possible premiership Hughes prelim performance Broncos performance against Penrith Payne Haas 27:45 - Dally M Awards  Big Marn selects his team of the year 35:30 - #AskGus  Who replaces Teddy Swims? Could Ben Hunt retire if the Broncos win? Should every player who plays during the season get a premiership ring? Should we have old school individual introductions for the Grand Final?  45:00 - Ampol Power Surge  Top 3 Grand Finals  46:30 - NRLW GF preview 48:30 - NRL GF preview

Gus tackles your #AskGus questions head-on. From the best piece of advice he’s ever received, to whether the NRL really gives minor premiers the reward they deserve, and how Nathan Cleary and Jerome Luai developed into elite players so early.

The finals are here and Gus is firing. From the Raiders’ struggles and Nicho Hynes silencing the critics, to Turbo’s uncertain future at Manly and the bombshell of Mark Nawaqanitawase quitting the Roosters - which Gus calls “sad for our game.” Gus explains why he believes “the hoodoo is about to end” with 5 to take on 7 in the Grand Final. Plus, Gus drops his Top 3 Brain Explosions and previews all the action ahead in both the NRLW and NRL finals. 00:00 - Welcome  01:00 - And then there were 4 03:00 - Sunday Footy is the greatest 06:00 - Yes / No - Poor Raiders 12:00 - Yes / No - Nicho silencing the critics 17:00 - Yes / No - Turbo will wave goodbye to Manly 26:00 - Yes / No - Mark Nawaqanitawase to quit the Roosters 28:00 - 2025 RLPA Players’ Dream Team 30:00 - Ampol Power Surge - Top 3 Brain Explosions 40:00 - NRLW & NRL Finals Preview

We take a look back at the best of #AskGus from 2025

The best time of the year is upon us! Finals football! Gus and Thomo break down all the key matchups and storylines for an electrifying Week 1 of the NRL finals. Gus declares Payne Haas to be one of the greatest props the game has ever seen. Gus also dives deep into the state of the Newcastle Knights, giving his take on their long and challenging rebuild. Plus, the forwards are announced for the Six Tackles with Gus team of the year. 00:00 - Welcome  Finals are here! Best time of the year Gus has signed on to 2031 with the Bulldogs  Gus the star of 100% Footy 07:00 - Yes No No No 07:45 - Raiders enter the finals in the best shape 09:25 - The Knights are in for a long rebuild 16:00 - Dolphins should target Trai Fuller 17:30 - Locky purchasing a stake in the London Broncos is a great sign for the game 29:20 - Payne Haas is already one of the games greatest ever props 33:15 - STWG team of the year Gus selects his forward pack 51:00 - #AskGus What do you look for in good talent? Who would be best suited for the Newcastle job? 01:02:10 - Ampol Power Surge Top 3 aerial exponents 01:09:45 - NRL Week 1 finals preview

Gus isn’t ruling out a shock Grand Final clash, suggesting the finals could throw up some unexpected contenders from outside the top of the ladder. With September footy just around the corner, the team unpacks all the possible scenarios and surprises. They also dive into the biggest Tries and Moments of 2025 – from Mark Nawaqanitawase’s breakout try to Latrell and Cleary’s ice-cool field goals, Leka Halasima’s brilliance, and the unforgettable Miracle in Mudgee. Plus, the first half of the Six Tackles Team of the Year is revealed, with the backs locked in. 00:00 - Welcome  Live show last week Finals scenarios 09:00 - Yes No No  Alex Johnston to break record on Friday night 13:00 - Raiders minor premiership is the most surprising in last 10 years 22:00 - Mark Nawaqanitawase will be playing for the Kangaroos  27:00 - Six Tackles try and moment of the year Mark Nawaqanitawase try Latrell field goal Cleary field goal Leka Halasima try Miracle in Mudgee 44:00 - Six Tackles Team of the year Pt 1 Backs  56:30 - #AskGus Biggest threats and opportunities in the future Can the Broncos cause some damage in the finals 01:06:00 - Ampol Power Surge Top captains for the year 01:08:45 - Round 27 preview

Join Gus & Mat live from the Canterbury Leagues Club for their first live podcasting recording. With special guests Josh Reynolds & Mark O’Meley plus plenty of #AskGus questions live. It’s all thanks to our mates at TAB.

This week on #AskGus, Gus and Mat tackle some of the big questions from listeners.  At what point do Manly have to face the hard truth about the Trbojevic brothers and the toll on their roster?  Could the Raiders have the spark to knock off heavyweights Melbourne or Penrith if they make it to the big stage?

Gus Gould makes a massive claim about Harry Grant's potential, analysing what makes him one of the most brilliant players in the game today.  He also tackles the NRL's crippling injury crisis, gives his fiery take on the push for yellow cards for diving, and breaks down the crucial moments from the weekend's games, including the Rabbitohs' gutsy win and the Roosters' strong form. Six Tackles is doing a live show Thursday 28th August from 2pm at Canterbury Leagues Club - before the Bulldogs-Panthers Game. To be there send your best #AskGus questions to sixtackles@nine.com.au for your chance to come along. Limited seats so get going! Please ensure you include your full name and phone number and we’ll respond to winners. It’s all thanks to TAB 00:00 - Welcome  Royce Simmons Big Walk Panthers Raiders game should be free to air TAB Live Show  07:00 - Parramatta will be finals contenders next year 10:00 - The Dragons have wasted a chance to play finals this year 15:30 - Jye Gray is a genuine match winner 21:00 - Harry Grant the second best hooker of all time 31:30 - Yellow cards for diving? 34:00 - Is the NRL season too long? 53:00 - Ampol Power Surge Top 3 coaches 55:00 - NRL and NRLW preview

Gus weighs in on the Titans’ recent struggles, particularly the news that captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui might test the open market, and offers his strong opinion on the future of coach Des Hasler. He also discusses why he believes James Tedesco is the Dally M favourite, explains why he thinks the Bears’ supposed offer to Tino is “ridiculous”, and shares his thoughts on the Broncos’ chances of making the top eight. Six Tackles is doing a live show Thursday 28th August from 2pm at Canterbury Leagues Club - before the Bulldogs-Panthers Game. To be there send your best #AskGus questions to sixtackles@nine.com.au for your chance to come along. Limited seats so get going! Please ensure you include your full name and phone number and we’ll respond to winners. It’s all thanks to TAB 00:00 - Welcome  Roosters dominance  Isaah Yeo injury Six Tackles is going live! Canterbury Leagues Club 08:30 - Yes No No Mitch Moses and Tallyn Da Silva would’ve been completely fine post match 11:10 - Ethan Strange reminds you of Laurie Daley 16:15 - Ideally, rugby league would be 11 on 11 24:00 - James Tedesco is the Dally M favourite 26:00 - Brisbane will not miss the 8 34:00 - Tino to test the open market Gus doesn't understand the contract clause Would not pay $1.5m for a front rower 41:30 - Other players up for grabs Sandon Smith Bailey Simonssen 45:00 - Six Tackles Live Show  Two guests confirmed so far 49:30 - #AskGus Would Willie get a gig as a trainer for the Bulldogs? Salford Red Devils 56:00 - Ampol Power Surge Best code hoppers 59:45 - Round 24 preview and tips

Gus doesn't hold back this week, firing up about the Panthers trainer controversy, over-the-top try celebrations, and declaring the NRL competition is tighter than ever.  From Sam Backo’s legacy to the Eels' dark horse potential and whether the Dolphins could storm into premiership glory, plus a fiery finals preview, Gus covers a lot! 00:00 - Welcome  Gus’ eye surgery Sam Backo  Top teams go down 04:30 - Yes No No  Fans that got to Magic Round over the weekend deserve free entry all year round Adam Doueihi’s best position is halfback No Herbie = No Dolphins Jayden Campbell should have been allowed to take the conversion again 23:30 - Wests Tigers sanctioned  27:00 - #AskGus for TAB Which players careers have been cut short? What is Fletcher Sharpe’s ceiling? Can the Eels be a dark horse next year? What has happened to Manly? 40:30 - Ampol Power Surge Top 3 Indigenous players 47:00 - NRL and NRLW tips and preview

Gus boldly predicts the Raiders will finish as minor premiers and have a very good chance to go all the way. Lachlan Galvin is likely to have a tough afternoon against his old side, the Wests Tigers, as Gus highlights the young player’s level-headedness. The Melbourne Storm’s premiership chances without Jahrome Hughes are debated, alongside speculation about Ryan Papenhuyzen’s potential move to Rugby360, with Gus emphasising that “money isn’t everything.”

In this #AskGus edition, Gus gives his unfiltered take on everything from marathon warm-ups to the Bunnies shot at a premiership under Wayne Bennett. He reflects on the evolution of player development, reveals he’s been calling footy with dodgy eyesight for years, and shares a laugh-out-loud story about the time one of his players got literally lost on a pre-game jog at Leichhardt Oval. 

Gus shares his thoughts on the growing impact of rule changes in the game. He also makes a strong case for the international growth of rugby league, suggesting that Origin/NRL eligibility shouldn't limit a player's chance to represent their country. And yes, there's even a light-hearted look at the Bulldogs’ latest haircut trends. 00:00 - Welcome  Nailbiting finishes NRL golfers  04:00 - Yes No No Des Hasler will be remembered as a legend of the game  Warriors and Knights was a finish from the footy gods  Blayke Brailey is the best hooker in the comp right now 19:00 - The consequences of changing the rules Protecting general play kickers  Gus warned Joey and Freddy about it 23:00 - The Kangaroos and international teams  Eligibility  Gus is a big advocate for players to play international football 30:00 - Angus Bowen  Bulldogs haircuts  35:00 - Ampol Power Surge Best English players  44:00 - NRLW and NRL tips 

Kalyn Ponga & Adam O'Brien's future is on the agenda as Gus takes a deep dive into the issues at the Newcastle Knights.   Plus, how soon will Josh Hannay take a head coaching job, the impact of Munster on Origin and Gus pays tribute to Kieran Foran's NRL career.   00:00 - Welcome  Gal and SBW fight British Open  05:00 - Yes No No 05:10 - Kieran Foran will be one of the most resilient players  06:30 - Toby Rudolf saved the Sharks season 10:00 - Cam Munster will go down as an Origin great 15:00 - Josh Hannay will be a head coach next year 18:00 - Newcastle Knights  Adam O’Brien and the Knights likely to part ways Kalyn Ponga has committed to stay until the end of contract The importance of development and having Newcastle in the competition  Dylan Brown signing  Could the Knights let Ponga go? 35:15 - Rugby 360  39:00 - #AskGus for TAB Fullback role  Scrums  57:00 - Ampol Power Surge Individual Origin performances 01:01:00 - Round 20 tips

Get ready for a special bonus episode of Six Tackles with Gus! Mat Thompson and Gus Gould are joined by NSW Blues legend Andrew 'ET' Ettingshausen for a fantastic trip down memory lane. Hear incredible stories and insights straight from ET himself as they chat about his illustrious playing career, from his early days to his defining moments in Origin and international rugby league.

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 

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?

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 job

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 15:15 - Manly Sea Eagles 18:15 - Jack De Belin  21:15 - Freddy could’ve been a Parrramatta Eel 22:30 - Fletcher Sharpe  24:45 - Australian coaching job  30:00 - #AskGusFreddy Biggest factor that contributed to QLD Game 2 win?  Player Freddy was most proud to give Origin debut to Toughest player to come up against in playing career New rule to implement for next year 38:00 - Ampol Power Surge Top 3 rivalries 41:30 - Round 17 tips 

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 lose game 2 What is the biggest danger for NSW heading into this game 35:30 - Ampol Power surge Which players will have a game changing moment  39:00 - Final predictions

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.

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 Preview

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.

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  

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 Thurston

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.  

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.

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  01:08:45 - Round 12 preview

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.

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.

This week's episode of Six Tackles will be released on Friday the 16th of May

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.

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.

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.

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.

In the 45th year of rugby league’s fiercest rivalry, Stories of Origin is back with its most emotional season yet - Magic Moments: As Voted By You, thanks to TAB. Across six epic episodes, fans chose the plays that made them shout, cry and believe again, and the legends who lived them tell every raw detail. We kick off where Origin itself began: Arthur Beetson’s thunderous return to Lang Park in 1980. A weary warrior summoned home, Beetson strapped on the captain’s armband and, in eighty unforgettable minutes, turned a fledgling concept into the greatest spectacle in Australian sport. Hear rare archival audio, inside-the-sheds reflections, and fresh insight from Wally Lewis, Phil Gould, Roy Masters and more as they relive the night one man’s pride and power put State of Origin on the map. Narrated by Mathew Thompson.  Game 1 of the 2025 State of Origin series is live and exclusive on Nine & 9Now, Wednesday 28 May.

Gus analyses Mitch Moses' impact on Parramatta and what it could mean for NSW. The Lachlan Galvin saga isnt going away anytime soon and Gus has his say on the matter. Are the Raiders a genuine premiership threat? Is it time for the NRL to introduce a transfer period and draft? A huge preview of the most important day of the year - ANZAC Day. Plus all Gus' tips and #AskGus questions answered, proudly brought to you by TAB. 

Gus weighs in on the Lachlan Galvin bombshell. He questions the motive behind the decision, the timing, and the role of player managers in today’s game. “It’s untenable,” he says. “It’s not going to last.” With strong words for the Tigers’ reaction and real concern for Galvin’s welfare, Gus doesn’t hold back. Plus: #AskGus, Gus’ Auction House and Gus’ Round 7 Tips. 00:00 - Welcome - Easter Friday match tipped for 70,000 6:45 - JWH will go down as one of the greatest ever props 8:15 - Rory McIlroy will go down as the one of the greatest ever 13:30 - Jaxon Purdue is a future Origin star 14:15 - Lachlan Galvin 45:30 - #AskGus 53:30 - Six Tackles Trivia 56:00 - Gus’ Auction House  01:00:00 - Round 7 preview

Welcome to a bonus episode of Six Tackles with Gus.  Over the past few episodes we've been building Gus' Auction House - getting inside Phil Gould's mind to understand how difficult it is to build a modern NRL team under the salary cap, and how much he’d be willing to spend on each position.. In this episode we're focusing on the wingers.