In previous seasons, the Saints backline literally just ran onto the ball at speed, got over the gain line, hit their front, quick ptb and repeat.

I wouldn't be surprised as he comes in with fresh eyes, shirt numbers will mean little and usually those further down the numbers are usually less experienced, not necessarily not as good. I
One I'll be interested to see what happens with is O'Connor, smith turned him into a 9 but I think 13 is a better fit and I think he'd be better there than smith at the minute so the halves are expected to dictate play more.

I wouldn’t say Smith turned him into a 9 - he was never going to get in the side past Cam. We needed cover at hooker and he had the right body type and some skill so there you go. One of the most picked players in the side for 2 years nearly.

Now he has bulked up a bit I think loose forward might be back in the frame, but he ultimately lacks size. TNW was picked at 13 for the reserves too.

Turned O'connor into a 9 and the rest into headless chickens.

indeed

He wasnt a 9 Before smith arrived, then he was a 9. Whatever the reasons smith still turned O'Connor into a 9.