<![CDATA[The NRL Playbook]]>Welcome to The NRL Playbook. The podcast for fans who do not just watch footy, they read it.

Hosted by Condo and The Matrix Gerard, this is sharp NRL analysis without the noise. Each week the boys break down matchups, team lists, form lines and throw out bold predictions that they will absolutely be reminded about later.

Alongside the podcast is the NRL Playbook Tipping Comp, featuring a full season ladder, knockout chaos and a weekly jackpot, so your footy IQ is not just talked about, it is tested.

If you think you know footy, this is where you prove it. New episodes released weekly throughout the NRL season.

@theballandall_ & @mrg_readingtheplay

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 02 May 2026 08:34:51 GMTFri, 20 Feb 2026 05:30:08 GMT60The Ball and All & Reading The Play<p>Welcome to <b>The NRL Playbook</b>. The podcast for fans who do not just watch footy, they read it.</p><p>Hosted by Condo and The Matrix Gerard, this is sharp NRL analysis without the noise. Each week the boys break down matchups, team lists, form lines and throw out bold predictions that they will absolutely be reminded about later.</p><p>Alongside the podcast is the NRL Playbook Tipping Comp, featuring a full season ladder, knockout chaos and a weekly jackpot, so your footy IQ is not just talked about, it is tested.</p><p>If you think you know footy, this is where you prove it. New episodes released weekly throughout the NRL season.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/theballandall_/" target="_blank">@theballandall_</a> &amp; <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrg_readingtheplay/" target="_blank">@mrg_readingtheplay</a></p>episodicThe Ball and All & Reading The Playthesevens777@hotmail.comyes<![CDATA[Round 8 | Best Bets & Predictions🏈 ]]>This week, not much action on the surface—no coaches sacked, no big player trades—but dig a little deeper, and there's turbulence: injury crises, wild card moves, and coaching shake-ups looming.
The top of the tipping table is congested, wildcards are changing the game, and the last man standing could be decided in this weekend’s tough matches. Plus, the upcoming clash at Leichhardt and Campbelltown, where home ground advantage and discipline could make or break teams.
Worth thinking about: even in a quiet week, the stakes are higher than ever!

]]>2a9c9c92-37e1-4b97-a9ed-523fa7aba7b1Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:17:12 GMT<p>This week, not much action on the surface—no coaches sacked, no big player trades—but dig a little deeper, and there's turbulence: injury crises, wild card moves, and coaching shake-ups looming.<br />The top of the tipping table is congested, wildcards are changing the game, and the last man standing could be decided in this weekend’s tough matches. Plus, the upcoming clash at Leichhardt and Campbelltown, where home ground advantage and discipline could make or break teams.<br />Worth thinking about: even in a quiet week, the stakes are higher than ever!</p>no00:30:29117Round 8 | Best Bets & Predictions🏈 full<![CDATA[Round 7 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈]]>This week Condo and Mr Matrix are putting the NRL board under the microscope. Did you know that 56% of games are ending in blowouts? We're talking scores of 70, 80 points—does that sound like NRL to you? It’s becoming glorified touch football, and that’s raising some serious questions in this podcast about the game’s integrity. We’re seeing a spike in ‘six again’ calls—up 55% this season alone! This isn’t just a tweak; it’s a transformation driven by TV revenue and a push for more tries per game. Tune in to join the discussion! 

]]>faa4aa6d-addb-4965-87e1-d41d351fea2dTue, 14 Apr 2026 13:37:32 GMT<p>This week Condo and Mr Matrix are putting the NRL board under the microscope. Did you know that 56% of games are ending in blowouts? We're talking scores of 70, 80 points—does that sound like NRL to you? It’s becoming glorified touch football, and that’s raising some serious questions in this podcast about the game’s integrity. We’re seeing a spike in ‘six again’ calls—up 55% this season alone! This isn’t just a tweak; it’s a transformation driven by TV revenue and a push for more tries per game. Tune in to join the discussion! </p>no00:39:59116Round 7 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈full<![CDATA[Round 6 | Coaches Corner & Best Bets 🏈]]>The pressure is mounting at the Dragons, and it’s not just about the losses. The disarray at the board level is impacting the players and the game style. When the system isn’t working, it’s tough for anyone to stay motivated, especially the saints greatest ever supporter Condo! Dive into this episode where Mr Matrix and Condo discuss coaches under some heat and the weekly draw!

]]>03d4f8bc-b69c-44f6-b432-3bce7968e2b6Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:59:25 GMT<p>The pressure is mounting at the Dragons, and it’s not just about the losses. The disarray at the board level is impacting the players and the game style. When the system isn’t working, it’s tough for anyone to stay motivated, especially the saints greatest ever supporter Condo! Dive into this episode where Mr Matrix and Condo discuss coaches under some heat and the weekly draw!</p>no00:30:47115Round 6 | Coaches Corner & Best Bets 🏈full<![CDATA[Round 5 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 ]]>In recent discussions, we've been hearing whispers about coaching changes in the NRL. It's all about timing and performance, right? Shane Flanagan’s name keeps popping up, and the pressure is on. Coaches know they need results, or they might find themselves out the door. Mr Matrix is the coach whisperer and he has spoken! Tune in to find out more!

]]>289409c6-c273-4f3c-8895-0f885d48670fWed, 01 Apr 2026 21:53:18 GMT<p>In recent discussions, we've been hearing whispers about coaching changes in the NRL. It's all about timing and performance, right? Shane Flanagan’s name keeps popping up, and the pressure is on. Coaches know they need results, or they might find themselves out the door. Mr Matrix is the coach whisperer and he has spoken! Tune in to find out more!</p>no00:37:45114Round 5 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 full<![CDATA[Round 4 | Best Bets & Knockout Potential Threats 🏈 ]]>Every week, it's a new story in rugby league. From the Broncos' unexpected implosion post-premiership to the intense competition among teams, there's no shortage of excitement. On that note- we are down to 79 Players in the Knockout! With over 100 getting decimated last week with some wild upsets! 

]]>342d6e1b-8147-43d4-9337-1ed1a4a08b77Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:01:32 GMT<p>Every week, it's a new story in rugby league. From the Broncos' unexpected implosion post-premiership to the intense competition among teams, there's no shortage of excitement. On that note- we are down to 79 Players in the Knockout! With over 100 getting decimated last week with some wild upsets! </p>no00:47:59113Round 4 | Best Bets & Knockout Potential Threats 🏈 full<![CDATA[Round 3 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 ]]>As we dive into the latest round of our tipping comp, it's all about strategy and a bit of luck. Last week was a wild ride with some unexpected results, and this week’s matchups are just as thrilling! 

Remember for the Knockout, if you tipped a team last week, you can’t pick them again for the next two weeks. So choose wisely!

]]>25152018-8646-42bb-bfc9-de17b57d5283Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:22:04 GMT<p>As we dive into the latest round of our tipping comp, it's all about strategy and a bit of luck. Last week was a wild ride with some unexpected results, and this week’s matchups are just as thrilling! </p><p>Remember for the Knockout, if you tipped a team last week, you can’t pick them again for the next two weeks. So choose wisely!</p>no00:48:02112Round 3 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 full<![CDATA[Round 2 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 ]]>Condo & Mr Matrix break down NRL Round 2, giving their best bets, predictions and value plays for the weekend. Which teams are set to bounce back? Where are the better edges?
Plus tips for the Knockout competition starting this week!

Listen now and follow along at readingtheplay.com

]]>98a234a4-eade-4d63-9a32-d91c6d924d8cWed, 11 Mar 2026 10:28:15 GMT<p>Condo &amp; Mr Matrix break down NRL Round 2, giving their best bets, predictions and value plays for the weekend. Which teams are set to bounce back? Where are the better edges?<br />Plus tips for the Knockout competition starting this week!<br /><br />Listen now and follow along at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://readingtheplay.com" target="_blank">readingtheplay.com</a></p>yes00:43:48111Round 2 | Best Bets & Predictions 🏈 full<![CDATA[ Round 1 | Best Bets & Predictions Continued 🏈]]>And we're off!! Vegas week has now finished with a couple of very interesting games over in America! This episode we breakdown those first two match ups along with previewing the first week here in Aus! This Thursday we start of with a cracker! Storm vs Eels! The NRL Playbook has everything for the fans! Dive into the episode now and don't forget its not too late to sign up to our footy tipping comp!

]]>5615d386-aada-4d0c-8a7d-4e2db785a8a3Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:10:34 GMT<p>And we're off!! Vegas week has now finished with a couple of very interesting games over in America! This episode we breakdown those first two match ups along with previewing the first week here in Aus! This Thursday we start of with a cracker! Storm vs Eels! The NRL Playbook has everything for the fans! Dive into the episode now and don't forget its not too late to sign up to our footy tipping comp!</p>yes00:47:20110 Round 1 | Best Bets & Predictions Continued 🏈full<![CDATA[ Round 1 | Vegas 🏈 ]]>We’re live from Vegas, soaking up the atmosphere as we gear up for the first round of NRL action! 🏉

First up we have the Knights vs Cowboys, followed by the mighty Dragons taking on the Bulldogs this Sunday! Two great match ups and the streets of Vegas are buzzing with anticipation!

Condo & The Matrix Gerard are your hosts for the NRL Playbook Season. With years of combined experience in rugby league analysis, their insights and predictions are informed by a deep understanding of the game and its intricacies. They’re here to help you navigate every round this season!

Just a reminder: the tipping comp is open until Sunday morning before the Newcastle Knights take on the Cowboys. We’re aiming for 350 entries, and it’s only $40 to join! 💰 If you’re coming last, don’t worry—you can still win!

Full details in our bio.

]]>31ed4d6b-25e9-4d61-96c4-529baf9731e3Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:35:20 GMT<p>We’re live from Vegas, soaking up the atmosphere as we gear up for the first round of NRL action! 🏉</p><p></p><p>First up we have the Knights vs Cowboys, followed by the mighty Dragons taking on the Bulldogs this Sunday! Two great match ups and the streets of Vegas are buzzing with anticipation! <br /><br />Condo &amp; The Matrix Gerard are your hosts for the NRL Playbook Season. With years of combined experience in rugby league analysis, their insights and predictions are informed by a deep understanding of the game and its intricacies. They’re here to help you navigate every round this season!</p><p></p><p>Just a reminder: the tipping comp is open until Sunday morning before the Newcastle Knights take on the Cowboys. We’re aiming for 350 entries, and it’s only $40 to join! 💰 If you’re coming last, don’t worry—you can still win!</p><p>Full details in our bio. <br /></p>yes00:28:5619 Round 1 | Vegas 🏈 full<![CDATA[Rabbitohs, Tigers & Warriors Preview]]>As the 2026 NRL season approaches, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike. The Rabbits, Warriors, and Tigers all have unique challenges and opportunities ahead. While the Rabbits aim to recover from a disappointing season, the Warriors hope to build on their success, and the Tigers look to harness their young talent. Each team's journey will be compelling to watch for fans and bettors alike.

Join the Footy Tipping Today!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>e283465c-9f3b-4fd0-bb99-71fe61611c5bTue, 24 Feb 2026 11:08:09 GMT<p>As the 2026 NRL season approaches, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike. The Rabbits, Warriors, and Tigers all have unique challenges and opportunities ahead. While the Rabbits aim to recover from a disappointing season, the Warriors hope to build on their success, and the Tigers look to harness their young talent. Each team's journey will be compelling to watch for fans and bettors alike.<br /><br />Join the Footy Tipping Today!<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p>no00:25:2818Rabbitohs, Tigers & Warriors Previewfull<![CDATA[Cowboys & Titans Preview]]>The Cowboys face a tough season ahead. With a shaky defense that leaked 30 points a game last year, they're struggling to find their footing. Losing key players like Reece Robson adds to the challenge.

On the flip side, the Titans are showing promise! With new leadership and a fresh approach, they’re looking to change the narrative. Their recent gameplay hints at a positive shift.

But can they maintain this momentum?

Join the Footy Tipping Today!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>88522a83-5b09-44c0-bf3f-31faf89b7086Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:55:14 GMT<p>The Cowboys face a tough season ahead. With a shaky defense that leaked 30 points a game last year, they're struggling to find their footing. Losing key players like Reece Robson adds to the challenge. </p><p>On the flip side, the Titans are showing promise! With new leadership and a fresh approach, they’re looking to change the narrative. Their recent gameplay hints at a positive shift. </p><p>But can they maintain this momentum? <br /><br />Join the Footy Tipping Today! <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p>no00:23:0317Cowboys & Titans Previewfull<![CDATA[Eels & Knights Preview]]>The Knights are in a rebuilding phase with Holbrook at the helm. He knows the club and has a strong coaching background, but can he revitalize a team that had a tough season? The Eels have everything to prove this season as the mark themselves as contenders! Key players like Mitchell Moses will be instrumental in determining their success this season. The team’s ability to adapt and implement new strategies will be crucial in overcoming their previous season's challenges, particularly in their offensive lineup.

Join our Footy Tipping now!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>6df8b0b5-e319-40d8-b98b-b72346b2ab5cMon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT<p>The Knights are in a rebuilding phase with Holbrook at the helm. He knows the club and has a strong coaching background, but can he revitalize a team that had a tough season? The Eels have everything to prove this season as the mark themselves as contenders! Key players like Mitchell Moses will be instrumental in determining their success this season. The team’s ability to adapt and implement new strategies will be crucial in overcoming their previous season's challenges, particularly in their offensive lineup.<br /><br />Join our Footy Tipping now!<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p>no00:18:4416Eels & Knights Previewfull<![CDATA[Panthers & Storm Preview]]>After a rocky start last season, the Panthers are back with a vengeance. With a solid lineup and fresh talent, they’re primed for success. The Melbourne Storm, on the other hand, faces a tougher road ahead. With key players like Xavier Coates undergoing surgery and others missing due to various reasons, the team's depth is being tested. The loss of marquee players like Pappenhausen and Katoa raises questions about their ability to compete at a championship level.

Join the Tipping League today!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>81eb3f1c-732e-415c-93e3-f78bd3928312Sun, 22 Feb 2026 08:10:49 GMT<p>After a rocky start last season, the Panthers are back with a vengeance. With a solid lineup and fresh talent, they’re primed for success. The Melbourne Storm, on the other hand, faces a tougher road ahead. With key players like Xavier Coates undergoing surgery and others missing due to various reasons, the team's depth is being tested. The loss of marquee players like Pappenhausen and Katoa raises questions about their ability to compete at a championship level.<br /><br />Join the Tipping League today!<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p>no00:13:4115Panthers & Storm Previewfull<![CDATA[Roosters & Manly Preview]]>Are you ready for some rugby league action? 🏉 This season, the Sea Eagles have a lot to prove! With DCE out and Fogarty in, will they rise or fall? On the other side of the pond, the Roosters are gearing up for a big season ahead! With some key signings and a more favourable draw, are they the team to beat?

Join our Footy Tipping today!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

#NRL #SeaEagles #RugbyLeague #SportsPodcast #NRL2023 #TeamChanges #Community #SportsTalk

]]>10fff2d5-eb5e-4b1e-af80-1fa002d48189Sat, 21 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT<p>Are you ready for some rugby league action? 🏉 This season, the Sea Eagles have a lot to prove! With DCE out and Fogarty in, will they rise or fall? On the other side of the pond, the Roosters are gearing up for a big season ahead! With some key signings and a more favourable draw, are they the team to beat? <br /><br />Join our Footy Tipping today! <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p><p></p><p>#NRL #SeaEagles #RugbyLeague #SportsPodcast #NRL2023 #TeamChanges #Community #SportsTalk </p>no00:14:0314Roosters & Manly Previewfull<![CDATA[Bulldogs & Raiders Preview]]>In this episode, Condo & Mr Matrix discuss the upcoming NRL season, focusing on the performance and expectations of the Raiders and Bulldogs. We analyse the changes in both team rosters, the impact of coaching strategies, and the competitive landscape of the league.

Welcome to the Playbook!! 🧠🏉
Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes & tipping comp chaos…
Hosted by @theballandall_ & @mrg_readingtheplay

Join our tipping comp today!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>fd41a74d-d304-403f-8ea5-09259f3a0497Sat, 21 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode, Condo &amp; Mr Matrix discuss the upcoming NRL season, focusing on the performance and expectations of the Raiders and Bulldogs. We analyse the changes in both team rosters, the impact of coaching strategies, and the competitive landscape of the league. <br /><br />Welcome to the Playbook!! 🧠🏉<br />Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes &amp; tipping comp chaos…<br />Hosted by <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/theballandall_/" target="_blank">@theballandall_</a> &amp; <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrg_readingtheplay/" target="_blank">@mrg_readingtheplay</a><br /><br />Join our tipping comp today! <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a><br /></p>no00:16:1413Bulldogs & Raiders Previewfull<![CDATA[Broncos & Dolphins Preview]]>The Broncos & The Dolphins currently dominate the Queensland NRL post code; how will both teams stack up in 2026! Dive into THE NRL PLAYBOOK! 🧠🏉

Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes & tipping comp chaos…
Hosted by @theballandall_ & @mrg_readingtheplay

Don't forget to join our footy tipping comp!
https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/

]]>d8c0bdfc-0baf-49d4-8e1a-bfb92299de8dFri, 20 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT<p>The Broncos &amp; The Dolphins currently dominate the Queensland NRL post code; how will both teams stack up in 2026! Dive into THE NRL PLAYBOOK! 🧠🏉<br /><br />Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes &amp; tipping comp chaos…<br />Hosted by <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/theballandall_/" target="_blank">@theballandall_</a> &amp; <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrg_readingtheplay/" target="_blank">@mrg_readingtheplay</a><br /><br />Don't forget to join our footy tipping comp! <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/" target="_blank">https://readingtheplay.com.au/nrltipping/</a></p>no00:31:0012Broncos & Dolphins Previewfull<![CDATA[Sharks & Dragons Preview]]>Welcome to the NRL Playbook! Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes & tipping comp chaos…
This episode we preview two mighty teams in the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks & St George Illawarra Dragons.

Hosted by @theballandall_ & @mrg_readingtheplay

]]>80d5c604-fdf0-440a-93fc-c636871f4924Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:48:46 GMT<p>Welcome to the NRL Playbook! Weekly NRL chat, sharp takes &amp; tipping comp chaos…<br />This episode we preview two mighty teams in the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks &amp; St George Illawarra Dragons.<br /><br />Hosted by <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/theballandall_/" target="_blank">@theballandall_</a> &amp; <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrg_readingtheplay/" target="_blank">@mrg_readingtheplay</a></p>no00:25:2411Sharks & Dragons Previewfull