The Great Ruck Debate.

[Thryleon]

Yep.
We talk a bit about variables in this debate. Things like ‘luck’ are a variable, and probably more than any other football code, because of the oval shape of the ball, luck plays a big part. If a hit-out doesn’t go directly to a player and hits the ground luck comes into play. The bounce can determine which side has the advantage.

But luck is just one of many variables that determine the result of matches.
If a club has built a list that is looming as a premiership contender (which I think everyone agrees…is ‘us’) then there are a couple of other factors that will determine the success of any campaign. Amongst the most important are ‘stability’ and ‘flexibility’

Stability-that depends on maintaining a healthy list. It can be affected by injury and also loss of form. That’s where the old chestnut ‘luck’ comes into play again.

Flexibility-that’s the importance of a list that contains a group of players that can fill specific roles but also some who can perform multiple roles. It’s the ability to experiment with combinations and tactics so that come finals time you are ready to go with a healthy list and a healthy set of strategies.

But flexibility also has a role in ‘thinking’.
This debate can probably be divided into two camps.

I don’t think there is anyone on here who would argue that two rucks is always the best option.

So, the difference of opinion is between some who think that one ruck is ‘always’ the best option (in fact the only option)  and those who think there are times when one option will work and others when two options should be explored.

That’s a difference in ‘fixed’ and ‘flexible’ thinking.

The only sure thing is we need to sort it out before September.

hmm.  Interesting.  Rhetorical question, the debate of rucks is quite irrelevant, but what people areactually arguing is what is our most complimentary mix of players. 

Is that because they see our best lineup and road to flag that way? Possibly.

Realistically it's more about what mix produces our best footy but that's part of the problem.  If we play one ruck for 2 years and have minimal issues with injury across that time it might be that they'll change their tune if it gets exposed a certain way.

As anything the longer you do something the more data you get.  This is the reason why I disliked jsos as second ruck.  To me it wasn't a viable long term plan and lived in Shaun grigg as second ruck territory where the Tigers ditched it after one season.