You still need to fully understand all the nuances. That only comes with experience. This is the top level where finer points matter.
Also, the players need to buy into him. He hasn't got the track record in union for for that to happen immediately - he'll have to earn that trust and respect. Quite apart from the natural amount of time it always takes to adapt to a different way of doing things.
They'll also look at Wikipedia and see the below from his own sport. This does not feel blue chip.
On 25 November 2020, Hodgson was named as the new head coach of
Hull F.C.Hodgson's reign at Hull F.C. got off to a good start as the club only lost once in their opening seven matches. However, the club ended the season winning only one game (against
Hull Kingston Rovers) from the last nine fixtures to finish 8th on the table.
[33] In September 2022, Hodgson stepped down as head coach of Hull F.C. by mutual consent. The club finished ninth on the table and missed the playoffs for a second consecutive season.
[34]
It may be easier for ex RL to be successful with defence but surely you have to earn spurs first as Edwards did?