LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Brisbane Broncos are in deep trouble as fresh drama unfolds surrounding coach Michael Maguire.
Player Martin Taupau faced scrutiny after he allegedly "liked" a social media post that critiqued Maguire's coaching methods.
Following the team's recent loss to the Rabbitohs - their fourth defeat in five games - Maguire's position has come under intense pressure.
Former Maroons legend Johnathan Thurston has raised doubts about Maguire's ability to improve the team's performance compared to last year.
Criticism has increased, especially with the Broncos currently sitting 10th in the standings after 10 rounds, a significant decline from their past expectations.
Maroons coach Billy Slater acknowledged "worrying signs" within the squad, echoing concerns about their trajectory.
On Instagram, former player Elijah Taylor shared insights into Maguire's coaching style, which he described as "intense." According to Taylor, there are three main issues contributing to the Broncos' struggles under Maguire:
Intensity: Taylor emphasized Maguire's extreme intensity, noting, "I've never seen a coach ride the game so hard.
After a win, the world is a better place.
After a loss, you're off to a funeral and someone will be getting cooked at the video session."
Training Methods: He described the training environment as overly physical, stating, "Ninety-five per cent of the time on the field it's full contact.
The hardest pre-season I have ever done is with Michael Maguire.
You haven't done an NRL pre-season until you have done a Michael Maguire pre-season."
- Time Management: Taylor pointed out the inefficiency of meetings, saying, "Let's have a meeting for a meeting for a meeting.
I'd get home from training and the kids don't know who I am anymore...
Hardly home."
Elijah Taylor, who has played 186 NRL games, has shed light on the mental and physical strains players face while under Maguire's tough regime.
As the Broncos confront ongoing struggles, all eyes will be on how Maguire responds to the mounting pressure and whether he can rectify the team's direction moving forward.