What happens when you combine some of Australia's favourite beers with its greatest sporting rivalry? We're diving headfirst into Origin week with our ultimate State of Origin Beer Teams!

Like any good selectors, we've carefully chosen our starting 13s for both New South Wales and Queensland, matching iconic brews to rugby league positions based on their characteristics, strength, and playing style. From Stone and Wood's versatile fullback qualities to Tooheys New directing traffic like a veteran halfback, we've created the perfect lineup for the Blues. Meanwhile, Queensland counters with XXXX Gold at the back and the monstrous 9.5% Felons Imperial Stout leading the forward pack.

The selections sparked fascinating debates about which state would triumph in this hypothetical beer showdown. Would Queensland's heavier forward pack (most weighing in above 5%) overpower the more balanced NSW team? Or would the Blues' versatility and combination play win the day? Just like real Origin, the margins are razor-thin, though we're predicting a narrow Queensland series victory - much to our chagrin as NSW supporters.

Beyond our beer-fueled fantasy draft, we break down the actual Origin matchups taking place this week, with both men's and women's games promising high-stakes action. We also dissect last weekend's NRL round, where underdogs reigned supreme across the board, and provide our tips for the upcoming fixtures.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or a die-hard league fan, this unique crossover episode delivers plenty of laughs while showcasing our passion for both brewing and rugby. So grab your favorite tinnie and join us for a different kind of Origin analysis that celebrates the best of both states!

The landscape of the NRL shifts dramatically as Origin selections reshape team rosters and the countdown to State of Origin begins. This episode dives deep into the aftermath of Round 11's most compelling storylines, from the Bulldogs cementing their status as the comeback kings to the Storm's troubling away form.

Recapping our weekend adventure at the newly opened Chalkies bar in Brookvale watching Manly defeat North Queensland, we explore why certain venues enhance the live sports viewing experience before analyzing the standout performances across the round. Clint Gutherson's 233-meter masterclass for the Eels and Koloamatangi's monster 80-minute prop performance lead our performance highlights, while the Knights' continued struggles earn them the dubious "flop of the round" designation.

The Origin team selections provoke passionate discussion about selection philosophies, with Robert Toia's Queensland selection after just ten NRL appearances raising eyebrows. We examine how both teams have balanced experience with form and the potential impact of key matchups, particularly Latrell Mitchell facing off against the rookie Queenslander.

Several fascinating patterns emerge from our game-by-game breakdown: the Bulldogs' remarkable second-half revival abilities under Stephen Crichton's leadership; the Broncos' troubling habit of surrendering early leads; and Melbourne's stark home/away performance disparity that threatens their premiership credentials. We also celebrate Xavier Coates' gravity-defying acrobatics that produced what may be the try of the season.

Looking ahead to Round 12, we provide detailed predictions for each fixture, considering the significant impact of Origin selections on team strength. Will depleted rosters create opportunities for upset victories, and which teams are best positioned to weather the Origin period? Find out as we analyze every matchup while offering our betting tips for the weekend's action.

The week of the comeback sees some extraordinary NRL performances as teams defy halftime deficits to claim dramatic victories. We break down the most impressive individual displays and what they mean for Origin selection.

• Stephen Crichton makes a compelling case for Origin captaincy with his dominant second-half performance against the Raiders
• Latrell Mitchell's 47-meter field goal in wet conditions delivers victory for the Rabbitohs against the Broncos
• Panthers and Cowboys play out a 30-30 draw that exposes Penrith's defensive weaknesses
• Melbourne Storm demolish Wests Tigers 64-0, raising questions about resilience and mercy rules
• Gold Coast Titans complete the biggest comeback in their NRL history against the Newcastle Knights
• Round 11 predictions include several tight contests that could influence ladder positions
• We reveal our full NSW Origin selections based on current form, not reputation
• Controversial omissions from our Origin teams include Tom Trbojevic and Jake Trbojevic

Join us next week as we analyse the fallout from Round 11 and react to the official Origin team announcements.