Five talking points from round three of Six Nations

Scotland's Finn Russell delivered a match-winning performance in their 26-23 victory over Wales in Cardiff during round three of the Six Nations on February 23, 2025, as the tournament's third round produced thrilling matches and shifted the championship landscape with France maintaining their Grand Slam challenge and Ireland dominating England. Russell's brilliant quick thinking and clutch kicking proved decisive as Scotland overturned a 23-12 deficit with just over 20 minutes remaining, with the fly-half switching momentum with a kick that allowed Darcy Graham to score in the corner. Former Scotland flanker John Barclay described the victory as 'the most important win they have had in a while,' giving Scotland a strong position in the table and setting up a crucial showdown with France at Murrayfield on March 7. France maintained their position as tournament favorites despite not firing on all cylinders in their 33-8 victory over Italy in Lille, with star scrum-half and captain Antoine Dupont showcasing his influence with a brilliant kick setting up the opening try and displaying defensive strengths during a dominant second-half spell. Dupont's performance was particularly notable as he returns from a knee injury, while Louis Bielle-Biarrey made history by becoming the first player in Six Nations history to score in eight successive matches. Meanwhile, Ireland's resurgence was personified by Robert Baloucoune, the 28-year-old wing who had not featured since November 2022 due to injury but played a huge part in their 42-21 demolition of England at Twickenham, troubling England's defense with his work-rate and scoring twice. England's campaign continues to unravel after consecutive defeats, with George Ford's struggles at fly-half raising questions about his position. Former Wales captain Sam Warburton criticized Ford's kicking, noting it was 'a real momentum killer' and suggesting Fin Smith might replace him. England's performance against Ireland was particularly concerning as they looked 'a muddle' after entering the tournament with a settled-looking side. Wales, meanwhile, extended their dismal run with a painful defeat summed up by Tomos Williams giving away a costly penalty for a croc roll, with Wales having lost 24 of 26 internationals since October 2023 and 14 successive Six Nations matches over three years.