I might go into more details later about the USA game plan, but I’ve gone on quite a bit already. So, let’s boil it down - don’t keep kicking when your chase is average and the opposition doesn’t make mistakes, counters well, and is good at taking quick lineouts; if you’ve got big, imposing runners, use them; concentrating on defense is good, but it smacks of playing not to lose unless you open up the offensive toolbox; and, if you’re not winning lineouts, get your best lineout guy in there.

The scrums were much improved, and that’s a plus. The Eagles had the ability to play exciting, open-field rugby, but didn’t with some exceptions. After years of bashing against the tryline and maybe … maybe piling over for a try from a maul or a pick-and-drive, the USA finally realized that if you spin quick ball wide when you’re close-in, you can score. They did it twice against Japan, and it took them three years to figure that out. Sigh.

Playing in a way that showcases the athletes we have, and playing in a way that is exciting to see, is the way forward. When the current attack plan produces the second-fewest tries in World Cup pool play, it's time to reevaluate.