As always, the start of the NRL season has been filled with an endless amount of reactions and opinions.
Comments such as "This coach needs to be sacked", "The new rules have ruined the game", and "The Brisbane Broncos are broken" have all been circling.
Some reactions hold merit, whilst others are simply overreaching.
Here's a look at six of the claims that have fuelled the start of the season and whether the fanfare—or panic—is warranted.
3. Penrith are just that good
Yes. Without a doubt.
Even with significant departures like Luai and last year's rocky start, Penrith have found their rhythm once again.
Blaize Talagi has begun to mesh well with Cleary, Casey Mclean has impressed in the centres, and Tom Jenkins has proven that a stint in the reserves can be a positive and reignite a player's form.
The club's junior pathways are producing unprecedented talent, and Ivan Cleary's coaching ensures cohesion that many other teams can only dream of.
Critics who rejoice at Penrith's rare misstep underestimate the system.
Year in, year out, they adapt, perform, and maintain their dynasty.
The only unfortunate thing for Penrith is that the bar they have set themselves is to win premierships; anything lower is a failure in many eyes.
However, the fortunate thing is that they are up to the challenge.
Right now, it's hard to comprehend how much homegrown talent is in one team.
I am surprised there haven't been rumours of these players being mere robots constructed in the back of Penrith Leagues Club.
Ultimately, any admiration for the team is deserved and not overhyped.
