Considering the physical attributes needed to do the bare minimum at every position, I'm shocked front rowers aren't earning more on average compared to backrowers or centres. There are a lot more rugby players able to fit the profile of a centre or flanker than a prop.
Foley is playing very well in Japan ATM and I’m sure Schmidt is taking notice.
Depends on the game plan and what Schmidt wants in a 10. Gordon is a better defender and has a better passing game than Lolesio/Donaldson/Lynagh. For many game plans that will outbalance the less consistent kicking, for others it won't. Also depends who's at 9/12/15 and if they can take up some of the kicking load.
I doubt very much that Lynagh will be considered. It’s Lolesio, Gordon and Donaldson. Two of those. Sadly I suspect Lolesio will get the gig due to goal kicking. Not the best 10 though.
The bit you are missing Joe is the pack, behind a winning pack Foley or Lolesio are fine enough without being game winners. Gordon has played a lot of his rugby behind a poor pack and rather than stand back he tries to open up an opportunity.
Donaldson and Gordon have both been selected in G&G’s TOTW on numerous occasions this year (for what it’s worth) so they must have been doing something right. And along with Lolesio, they are leading the Aussie 10’s for try assists with appx 6 whereas Lynagh has none. It will be very interesting to see which way Schmidt goes. All the young 10’s have different strengths and weaknesses but I just hope that whoever Schmidt picks he sticks with them throughout the year to build confidence and cohesion within the team.
