Had a thought while watching the Eels v Rabbits game. There was a two man tackle, and both ended up on the wrong side of the play the ball so we're out of play, but 2 other Eels players who had no involvement in the tackle went to marker. Thought it was a bit unfair that the Rabbits player dominates the tackle, yet still has 2 markers Infront of them.
Got me thinking what the impact would be if
a) it was illegal for a player to be marker of they weren't involved in the tackle;
b) all players involved in the tackle must take the position of marker
Couple of things immediately spring to mind.
You would see wider use of the football on the back of gang tackles, as the defensive line is shorter than usual, yet the ruck area is more congested.
And on the back of one on one tackles, you'd probably see more direct running or dummy half scoots.
Would probably see an increase in flop penalties too as players would be keen to involve themselves on one on one tackles.
Might also act to deter gang tackles.
Anyway, it would be a nightmare to officiate, and I'm not sure it would fix any particular issue in the game currently.
What do you reckon? NRL worthy? Or pure Topball?