4. Talking Points
No stand-out fullback option: The predicted line up for the Round 1 Broncos seems to feature a different fullback depending on the day. With Boyd retiring and Jack Bird moving on, the fullback role is up for grabs. Unfortunately for Kevin Walters there doesn't seem to be a host of candidates banging down the door either.
Tesi Niu is the option I'd like to see run out in the number one first up, however Jamayne Isaako is supposedly winning the race. Xavier Coates is another option, however looks to be a weapon on the wing after his efforts for Queensland.
It's not ideal to be a month out from kick off and you're yet to have a standout number one.
Can Milford bounce back?: I went on record in early 2020 in saying that Milford would have a huge season and return to the Origin arena. Unfortunately for the Broncs he was more suited for QLD Cup than QLD representation after a horror season.
Milford has all the tools to return to his match-winning best this year. He looks in incredible shape in pre-season training photos and all reports are he's focused and chomping at the bit. As one of the most entertaining players in the game, I hope he can re-find his form.
For the Broncos, if they're any chance of making an impression this year, their star number six MUST be back at his brilliant best.
New coach, new fortunes?: I've said it before and I have no qualms saying it again here; the Seibold saga descended into an absolute farce in 2020. The club allowed the situation to take over and ruin their season instead of making a decision and moving on.
Kevin Walters, a Broncos legend, is now at the helm which ends any speculation, and excuses. The Broncos are now united and have a vision moving forward under the former Origin coach.
This can only be a positive moving forward.
