In the old days, the USA was known as a hard-hitting team. You might be more attuned to the nuances of rugby, but if you play the USA, you would feel it in the ribs.

Well the Eagles were supremely physical in this game. They smacked Canada around and shocked them. That physicality comes from confidence. If you know what you’re supposed to be doing, and you know what your teammates are supposed to be doing, then you can go into contact with more confidence. They know what they can do now, and that makes for more physicality.

Photo by David Barpal.

Item #9 - Depth