NRL 2023: Broncos legend Corey Parker’s seven reasons why Brisbane can win the title

Add in the experience of veteran halfback Adam Reynolds and X-factor Reece Walsh, the Broncos are in the box seat to win their first title since 2006.

The Fox Sports expert reveals the seven reasons the Broncos can win it all in 2023, and where their premiership campaign can come undone.

1. THE COACH – Kevin Walters

Walters was under the blowtorch 12 months ago after his coaching credentials were questioned by Selwyn Cobbo and Tyson Gamble. Parker praised the ability of Walters to win over the dressing room after the drama.

“He had to deal with external noise after the podcast business but obviously they believe in what Kevin is doing, if you’re not buying in it’s extremely difficult to win titles,” Parker said.

“No one epitomises the passion of the Broncos more than Walters. Game plans are all done now. But there will be a big moment where a player will have to rely on the emotion and passion that has been able to filter through from Kevin all season.”

2. THE GENERAL – Adam Reynolds

Reynolds arrived in Red Hill from South Sydney on the back of speculation about his long-term health and fitness but Parker believes the gamble is about to pay off in a big way.

“It was a risk at the time because there was a lot of noise about his body and how long he would hold up,” Parker said.

“But they took that risk and it has paid off. He’s done everything he can for the team, but Reynolds’ biggest test is still in front of him. He’s been exceptional for the young guys and been able to unlock Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam, his biggest test will come on Friday night and potentially the week after.”

3. THE X-FACTOR – Reece Walsh

There’s been no greater X-factor in the competition than star fullback Walsh. Parker believes Walsh has transformed the Broncos into a premiership force.

“Quite simply, he’s the kind of X-factor that can help the Broncos to a title,” Parker said.

“He plays with an intuitive type of attack. We’ve seen his attack but it’s that speed, that burst, particularly at the back, he’s able to beat defenders. He has no fear, that makes him so dangerous.”

4. EXUBERANCE OF YOUTH

Brisbane are the youngest team remaining in the finals and Parker believes youth has given the side an edge, like it has done for back-to-back premiers Penrith.

“They have created a bond, a confidence, a swagger … an arrogance, if you like, in that group,” Parker said.

“I think all the best teams that have won the grand finals all have a swagger or arrogance about what they do.

“A lot of people talk about the Panthers and the way they carry themselves and I see it as being a confident football side enjoying themselves and the Broncos are in same mould at the moment.”

5. THE DEFENCE

For all of Brisbane’s attacking strike power, their success so far has been underpinned by the side’s improved defence.

“I was pretty critical last year in regards of their defence and some of the areas were evident to me but were being masked by a couple of wins,” Parker said.

“Back in round one they got the victory over the Panthers, and that was built on defence in what they were able to withstand and show up for each other.

“If they turn up for each other they have every chance to take out this title.”

6. THE UNSUNG HERO – Billy Walters

While spine stars Walsh and Reynolds have stolen the limelight in 2023, Billy Walters has flown under the radar and Parker believes the hooker has been Brisbane’s most improved player.

“Billy has been one of their unheralded stars,” Parker said.

“Coming in, he’s Kevvie’s son, and there were a lot of eye balls so everyone forms and opinion. Defensively, he’s put his hand up.

“He’s also been able to work on his craft, he gives the ball enough to Reynolds, Mam and Walsh when they need it but he’s also taking his opportunities. He’s added a kick to his game and he’s built a combination with his middle forwards.

7. THE ENFORCER – Payne Haas

Parker believes Addin Fonua-Blake has taken the mantle as the game’s best prop and for Brisbane to win the title Payne Haas must re-establish himself as the NRL’s best forward.

“I think Fonua-Blake is the premier prop in the competition by a whisker over Haas,” Parker said.

“These two alpha males in the middle of the park going at it will certainly decide what sort of the scoreline will come off the back off that.”

THE BIGGEST CONCERN – Battle scars

Brisbane bombed out of the finals last year and while the baby Broncos have a confident look about them this season, any scars from 2022 will be laid bare on Saturday night.

So too the burden of expectation and the pressure of getting the job done in front of a home crowd this weekend.

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“You get what you deserve in the NRL and the Broncos had to swallow a bitter pill last year,” Parker said.

“A couple of years ago they all endured a fair few scars these young boys.

“The Broncos didn’t do so well. Now they’re 80 minutes from a grand final, they’ll need calm heads.”

Originally published as NRL 2023: Broncos legend Corey Parker’s seven reasons why Brisbane can win the title