Scotland's convincing victory over Argentina without veteran fly-half Finn Russell has raised questions about team composition for the South Africa match. Tom Jordan and Fergus Burke both delivered accomplished displays in the 47-38 win, suggesting Scotland can function effectively without relying on Russell's distinctive improvisational style. The performance demonstrated the team could operate with more structured play and distribute responsibility across multiple ball-handlers.

Former Scotland prop Peter Wright has proposed a tactical shift: starting Jordan and introducing Russell later when defenders tire, rather than naming the 33-year-old in the starting lineup. Wright argues this approach addresses a vulnerability exposed during the 2023 World Cup, when South Africa successfully curtailed Russell's influence and Scotland lacked a viable alternative system. Coach Gregor Townsend attributed the team's improved performance to lessons learned from recent setbacks, highlighting their growing ability to manage momentum swings during matches.