I watch the sport, I just don’t think highlight moments have much meaning beyond their entertainment value. They are by nature a very small sample of data. If Tedesco is no longer good enough for Origin it’ll be reflected in his stats, not in losing one contested bomb. The incumbent NSW fullback is so poor under the high ball that he often lets them bounce. That’s not reflected in the stats because it’s highlights stuff, not data. Edwards has great stats, like all good players.
Edwards is not poor under the high ball. He is fine. Drops the odd one just like Ponga or Teddy or Walsh. Often suggests one or two a game . I'd guess 5 or 6 a season which is not often. Its odd occasion.. You are just used to watching Gutherson who never drops them unless its a wild kick. He was no 1 bomb diffuser in the competition.
Edwards isn't a superstar like Walsh or Ponga. But he is more a Gutherson with a bit more power, speed, stamina so he wears a defense down slowly rather then one hit like Walsh /Ponga who are explosive.
At his peak Gutherson was a top 5 fullback. If he was faster and a bit stronger I have no doubt he would of hit no 1. His ball playing is superior to Edwards and so is his kicking game.
The reason why Edwards/Gutherson shine is defense. Both save 1 or 2 tries a game that Walsh or Ponga couldn't stop.
We won't miss Guths attack but we might miss his defense.