I think the smoke and mirror angles is pretty spot on. Im sure the 17 playing have a fair idea of their spots and wouldnt be suprised if oates already knows he going to be struggling to make it but has been named to take the heat off mead in the press and whatnot. Thats something that has been done before and wb has form with it. I think the titans would definitely be planning some kicks his way if he does play, and it doesnt hurt to have them planning their exploitations of the vulnerabilities of a guy who wont be there. It means less time thinking about knicks and mogas defence. Im more worried about knick, but hope he does well.