Fresh off an unprecedented four consecutive premierships, Penrith Panthers fans must feel like they are living a dream. Did you ever envision such sustained dominance, 5 years ago?
Yes, I have a wager going ($500 with a relative) that Penrith would win 7 out of the next 10 GF’s, so in essence I’m banking on 8 from 11 since the 1st.
The Panthers will begin their season with a Round 1 clash in the United States. Could the overseas trip lead to a sluggish start, and how might it impact their title defense? Additionally, the club opted out of the World Club Challenge, the only trophy missing from their collection. Was this the right decision?
I think we will be primed for Vegas, but expect to have a significant “lull” when we return home with round 3 & 4 the big watch on where our focus is. The World Club challenge means 0 in comparison to NRL GF, it is akin to a true “battle harden” trial, nothing more for us.
With Jarome Luai departing, who will step up to partner Nathan Cleary in the halves?
I was hoping for Blaze to run at 7 for the first few games, maybe not Vegas, we are on show there, to ensure his knowledge our the TEAM needs, Cleary at 6 to offset issues then as we get into the season the real game plan. Regardless, Blaze to be the starting option in the halves.
Is there concern that motivation might wane after so much success, or is the hunger still there for another title push?
Absolutely NOT, the core of our group doesn’t entertain self-adulation, the very core of our group is TEAM first, with that comes the need to ensure all parties provide the needed inspiration and effort. Hunger is built on work ethic and effort.
Each year, Penrith has managed to replace departing stars without losing momentum. However, with James Fisher-Harris and Luai both leaving, are these the most challenging gaps to fill yet?
No - IMO Moses Leota is the #1 front rower in the game, Liam Henry will be the next dominant force and Lindsay Smith is already part of the rep squads, his work ethic and performances are outstanding for such a young front rower. Throw Papalii into the mix, his desire for a GF will drive the rest of the pack…we are in a very good space re Fish leaving. Romy, that is a tough one to answer, he was a leader when NC was injured, if we get through with NC unscathed particularly around SOO, then No, but the halves is a watch this space.
Adding to the adjustments, the Panthers will play their home games at Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium this season. How will this relocation impact the team’s performance!
I HATE IT…but the professionalism of this squad will overcome yet another speed bump. It will at least give their supporters a reminder of what winning feels like 
Which player is primed for a breakout season, and which rookie could debut and make an impact?
Luke Garner is my smokie for a SOO bench spot, so I will say him for the breakout season. The rookie, has to be one of the McLean boys, I know they played a few games last season, but the speed these guys possess is freaky.
Who is the best addition to the squad, and which departure will hurt the most?
Papalii the best, he will be one of the best buys of the season. Romy would be the biggest loss, upsetting such a combination over the years will be hard to replace.
What is the biggest weakness in the current team, and can it be improved as the season progresses?
The lack of home ground advantage will be an issue and will definitely improve as the season progresses, the TEAM will get used to playing away from the Riff.
How does the squad depth compare to previous years? Is there confidence that injuries to key players can be adequately covered?
No change, next man up mentality. We are probably in a better spot with positional coverage.
What does the strongest 17-man lineup look like for the Panthers this year?
It will take the field in the GF when all players are fit and in form
What would be considered a successful season, and what would be viewed as a failure in 2025? Finally, what is your overall prediction for the Panthers’ campaign?
Maintaining the TEAM unity, any change to that will be a failure. Maintaining this will result in the Michelle 5fa coming to fruition.
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