The Brisbane Broncos are facing a challenging start to the season under new coach Michael Maguire, drawing unsettling comparisons to Anthony Seibold’s troubled first year. After 12 games, the Broncos hold a disappointing 5-7 record, mirroring Seibold’s inaugural season in 2019, which ended in disaster despite finishing eighth. Recently, after suffering a 34-6 defeat to Manly, questions about a potential player revolt have surfaced. In response, captain Adam Reynolds dismissed these concerns, insisting that internal morale remains high and that Maguire is the right leader for the team.
Currently, the Broncos sit in 11th place, a drop from last season’s 12th after appearing in the 2023 grand final. Brisbane’s management believed in Maguire’s potential, particularly following his successful stint coaching New South Wales. Recognised for his accomplishments, including winning a premiership with Souths and a series with the Blues, Maguire’s tenure with the Broncos is now echoing his less fruitful time with the Wests Tigers, plagued by poor results and growing discontent among players.
Tensions escalated recently when veteran Martin Taupau was informed that his contract would not be renewed after he liked a critical social media post regarding Maguire’s approach. Historically, only Kevin Walters has had a worse start to coaching the Broncos than Maguire, with the team struggling in the wake of the Seibold era.
Comparatively, the first twelve games of Maguire’s coaching have fallen short against the records of past Broncos coaches like Ivan Henjak, Anthony Griffin, and Wayne Bennett. The team is now preparing for a crucial matchup against the Gold Coast Titans, who have also struggled this season. Brisbane needs to improve against the Titans, having only won 2 of their last 6 matches against them.
While there is speculation about Maguire’s stability as coach, Broncos icon Gorden Tallis noted that significant management changes would have to occur for his dismissal to be considered. Currently showing confidence in Maguire, the Broncos face an uphill battle; continued performance-related leaks and a decline in form may not bode well for his future. The upcoming matches will be crucial as the pressure mounts on both the team and management.