The Rugby Odds Season 5, Episode 33
NEW YORK, NY – Featuring an All-Star panel of #WWE Hall of Famer/Rugby-Advocate John Bradshaw Layfield, Irish legend George Hook, world class coach Mike Friday, King Gift Egbelu & host Matt “Money” McCarthy.
Scroll down for a more detailed Show Summary.
TOPICS in 24 minutes:
RECORD: 36-25
Faking Cramps
Glasgow’s Heart of a Champion
Mike Friday & India’s Rugby Premier League
Blame The Victorians
URC Semis
Premiership Semis
Super Rugby Qualifiers
MLR Playoff Races
George Hook re Crowley vs Hendrikse
Exclusive Highlights
Grown A$$ Man
Player of the Week
WATCH ON ANY DEVICE:
PODCAST VERSION:
Key match analysis includes:
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Munster vs. Sharks: A brutal URC match ending controversially in a penalty shootout. The panel criticizes the format, proposing a “golden point” alternative.
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Moana Pasifika: Disappointment over their missed playoff opportunity.
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NOLA Gold & Stormers: Noted for underperformance and inconsistency.
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Chicago’s rookie Peyton Wall earns MLR Play of the Week for a spectacular solo try.
Player recognition:
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Jack Crowley (Munster) is named Player of the Week for his all-around performance and confrontational edge, which included calling out opponent antics.
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Rory Darge (Glasgow) is unanimously selected as “Grown A$$ Man” for a dominant display in an underdog win.
George Hook offers a scathing review of officiating and fake cramping, particularly involving Jaden Hendrikse against Crowley, which he deems cheating that damages rugby’s integrity.
The panel ends with rapid-fire betting picks across all leagues. They favor Bath, Sale, and Brumbies in their respective semifinal matchups and call for high-scoring matches like Chiefs vs. Blues. The show maintains its trademark blend of sharp rugby insight, humor, and bold commentary.
AND BE SURE TO CHECK OUT... The new MLR Weekly with, Sam Golla, Captain of the Carolina Anthem.
CHARLOTTE, NC – We’re in the last week of the regular season and the playoff races are red hot. There’s a lot to be decided, and MLR Weekly is here to help. What we do know is that the 0-15 Carolina Anthem will be not be in the post-season. BUT all is not bleak in the Tar Heel state, as per Anthem Captain Sam Golla. He’s as upbeat as ever, remains committed and talks about the pros and cons of the Carolina/Team USA relationship. See the Show Summary below for show specifics.
ALSO INCLUDED:
–John Fitzpatrick of Rugby Morning
–Bryan Ray of Americas Rugby News
–Exclusive Highlights
–TRN Play of the Week
–Picks of the Week by The Rugby Odds
-Analysis & Predictions
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PODCAST VERSION:
Show Summary
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? Miami Sharks Clinch Playoff Spot: In a thrilling 36–32 win over San Diego, Miami secured their first playoff appearance. Shane O’Leary and Manny Ardoa led the charge in a high-paced, physical encounter that defied expectations.
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? Epic LA Comeback vs Old Glory DC: LA reversed a major deficit despite a power outage halting broadcast. A turnover try sealed their 43–32 win and playoff qualification, leaving DC stunned in a packed stadium.
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?? Utah Dominates Carolina: Utah showcased ruthless efficiency with five tries from only 41% possession. The win prolongs Carolina’s winless streak, emphasizing the gap between expansion sides and playoff contenders.
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? Chicago Hounds Overcome NOLA: With standout plays from Peyton Wall and veteran Dylan Fawsitt, Chicago comfortably beat NOLA 38–17. This keeps their Eastern Conference title hopes alive.
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? Free Jacks vs Seawolves Classic: Seattle led early, but a red card turned the tide. New England capitalized and won 37–30, clinching a home playoff game but losing Jayson Potroz to injury.
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?? Sam Golla Interview: The Carolina Anthem captain reflected on a tough winless season, emphasizing the team’s mission to develop USA rugby talent and his own commitment to leadership, resilience, and growth amidst adversity.
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? Final Week Predictions & Odds: Bryan Ray and guests forecast key matches with playoff implications. Key games include Seattle vs Miami and San Diego vs DC, both expected to be decisive thrillers.
Insights Based on Numbers
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5 Tries: Utah scored 5 tries with only 41% possession—an impressive conversion rate.
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0–15 Record: Carolina Anthem’s ongoing winless season reflects both challenges and developmental focus.
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40-Meter Try: Rookie Peyton Wall’s highlight try epitomized Chicago’s offensive power.
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3 Appearances: Sam Golla became the first player featured on MLR Weekly in every season of his career.
Example Exploratory Questions
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What leadership lessons did Sam Golla share about captaining a winless team?
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How did LA secure their playoff spot in a chaotic match against DC?
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What playoff scenarios are possible heading into the final week of the MLR regular season?
And don’t miss another excellent installment of The Rugby Odds
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