WA Bears NRL Reaction, Signings Debate & Bang Bang Bets | Ahead of the Game Ep. 28

In Ep. 28 of Ahead of the Game – Sports Chat, Ryan and Jez react to the breaking news that the WA Bears will enter the NRL in 2027. The idea of merging North Sydney heritage with a brand-new Perth identity has sparked massive debate—and this episode is full of it.

Jez is all in on the idea. With Billy Moore leading the charge, North Sydney's junior talent pipeline, and the brand credibility of the Bears, he sees the merger as the perfect way to kickstart WA’s rugby league relevance.

Ryan’s not having it. He thinks Perth deserves its own team, own name, and own identity—not a shared history that will dilute buy-in from both sides of the country. He argues the NRL is trying to please too many people and will end up alienating both.

From there, the boys discuss who the club should sign. Big-name forwards like Payne Haas are on the market. Smart depth pieces like Jesse Arthars could add flexibility. But there’s no ready-made halfback on the market… and that could be a problem.

Finally, it’s time for the Bang Bang Bet-Off. Jez backs Adelaide to cover a 24-point line in the Showdown, while Ryan counters with North Melbourne +36.5 vs Brisbane. Risky picks, wild odds, and plenty of roasting.

This episode is all footy, fire and forecasting. A must-listen before the weekend.