Is the NRL in crisis? Joseph Suaalli is heading to rugby for a reported $1.6 million a year. He might play in a World Cup but, after his Roosters deal run out, he won't play a rainy Thursday night at Campbelltown Stadium. Who wins? Is everyone stomping their feet over nothing? Haven't we been here before? This is the Fair Dinkum Department.

Is it outrage or just consistent concern? Either way, the NRL coverage this week will be chockers with Luke Brooks projections. Plus, it's not too soon to talk Origin, we were wrong about the Warriors (this week) and Matto returns.

Ponga has another concussion and rugby league can't lose him. A footy fan is a racist - even if delivered in bite-size packaging. Everybody loves Jackson Hastings. Teddy or Suaalii? Are any of these NRL stories?

Round 1 was a barnstormer in terms of on-field ply but, as is our way, media reports swayed from the real to the ridiculous.

TALKING POINTS

• HIA dramas