One of those rare occasions where you’re spot on

but with that logic you would lose both games to certain teams all year and we know that doesnt happen

Forwards don't impact Smith's passes hitting the deck or kicks out on the full though? So this post is only slightly true.

In addition, good halfbacks find a way to get involved and make things happen. Whether its through an excellent kicking game (which could negate the lack of yards in the forwards) OR linking in with forwards in our own half to stop them running at A,B,C defenders and get them a bit more out wide to run more at space/gaps. Smith also isn't doing this but it isn't confirmed whether its by choice or instruction.

Do we think Halves like Thurston or Johns would look this bad under Lam and behind the forward pack? Not at all, they would take matters into their own hands to make things happen. I am not for one minute comparing, those two to Smith, but some portion of his form/quality is down to him, it cannot all be attributed to external factors.

No they wouldn’t but equally at 21 years of age they weren’t expected to carry a poorly coached side in what is his first full season. The lads still finding his feet at this level and isn’t being helped with some poor coaching. He looks lost and totally empty of confidence which is a stark difference from when he came on to the scene.

Honestly, I think you’re being really unfair.

I was listening to Cooper Cronk talk about Sam Walker and CC said that when he 1st broke into the side he was told that, as young HB, all he needs to do is make his tackles and nail his kicks.

I can't honestly say that Smith is doing either.

I like the kid and not writing him off, but he needs a big off season and start to 2022 imo.

I completely agree with that assessment. 2022 could be make or break for Smith but equally his development has been hindered by poor coaching and poor personnel. I think some are being extremely unfair to him purely because he was banded about as the next big thing in the academy. You don’t just lose that level of talent.

Undoubtedly there's a lot who are quick to write him off. We've had that problem for years tho, so hopefully both those in charge & Smith don't listen.

I've just read an article in the MEN about Miller and it was interesting to read that Smith leads the league in attacking kicks rlhttps://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/jacob-miller-wigan-warriors-wakefield-21580532rl

Stats aren't obviously everything and I wouldn't say he's a top draw kicker by any means, but I still do think there's a good player in there. I'm happy he's here and I'm excited to see how he'll develop.

+1

That’s the worry. He is getting the very basic aspects of play wrong.

Absolutely agree regarding next year. It is huge in regards his career.

I’ve got to be honest, I can’t recall seeing a half back for a top team with such a poor passing game as Smith.

The last thing you are is “honest” as your username amply demonstrates.

He’s not wrong though on this years form.

Hopefully just a blip in a long successful career.

Still in the top five for try assists this season though, and only one less than Lomax.

You’re right but I think there’s too many extenuating circumstances to write him off just yet. We all agree 2022 is huge for him and he needs to have a big pre season. This time next year we’ll see who was right and who was wrong I suppose, not that it’ll be anything to gloat about. We both want him to come good and both would be gutted if it doesn’t work out.

Absolutely I hope very much he comes good.

Both Wigan and the International game need as many good British halves competing for half back jerseys.