In expert analysis, Fin Smith has shown that he merits the starting position as England's number ten versus the All Blacks this weekend.
The Northampton Saints star produced without doubt the most impressive defensive display observed by an English playmaker for quite some time.
His courageous approach through regularly completing his tackles versus an aggressive Fijian team stood out remarkably.
His tactical control proved exceptional - he demonstrated a perfect blend of skill and control, and made several crucial decisions when things were not going to plan in the first half.
His ability to settle the team strategically and make important decisions is something he has really nailed.
From my perspective, Fin Smith is England's number one playmaker and he should start against New Zealand next week.
I think head coach the England coach views it similarly as well, since Smith has proven his capability in big Test matches.
The experienced fly-half started last Saturday versus the Wallabies due to captaincy reasons, with some aspect of that choice was to provide continuity and reward his performance during the visit to South America.
However, the national team's performance against Fiji was a significant improvement from the performance versus the Wallabies.
The Wallabies lost on Italian soil on Saturday, so we should not get too carried away about that victory, which should have been more comprehensive given how off the pace Australia performed.
The Fijian team, on the other hand, were much more dangerous and presented a far tougher challenge.
The young playmaker remains just 23 - projecting forward 24 months, with Ford challenging him while providing support, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent place as a player.
The Harlequins star also has to be regarded as an option when appropriate and against suitable opponents.
He is developing as a player while beginning to establish himself, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique qualities.
New Zealand brought on their impact player, who scored the decisive score to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of having players capable of creating a real impact from the bench.
That kind of player can be the deciding factor between winning the global tournament from failure.
The All Blacks substitute observes the match unfold while substituted and thinks regarding ways he can make a difference when he comes on.
His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially from his initial professional days.
Should we develop Marcus as that kind of impactful player, then having him among substitutes could be valuable.
Nonetheless, at the moment I don't think Marcus is the answer at full-back, so that is a role that is still up for grabs.
The All Blacks are likely to punt to challenge the English defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.
It is a position requiring to become a real strength, in defense while regarding offensive transitions threat.
Currently, I don't think Smith functions as full-back at the highest level.
I find it difficult to see the advantage of playing him there.
I want the ball under his control frequently, though I think this should occur in the front line, particularly during the last 20 minutes.
Clearly there exist numerous parallels between Ford and Fin Smith.
Smith possesses the capacity to make right decisions under pressure - his instincts are not something that can be coach.
I recall as he received possession during one phase just inside his own half appearing like it could be on if they swung it wide.
However during these split-seconds he thought they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, therefore he punted to pressure the opponents applying the screw.
This represents the type of fly-half play that wins titles and wins global tournaments.
He additionally possesses that calmness during intensity to organise the players around him, and the understanding that he doesn't constantly serve as primary option.
I hope to witness him given the opportunity demonstrating that at the highest level next week, similar to the veteran accomplish, particularly during domestic matches repeatedly and week out.
During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half also stood up during challenging circumstances, previously one might suggest there have been times where he didn't fully delivered during extremely tense games.
I think we have two fly-halves capable of performing the role, though Smith's defence combined with everything else, establishes him as the better-rounded versatile performer.
This also indicates you don't have to adjust your defensive system when you have someone aggressive in the fly-half channel, instead of an individual being a little more reserved.
You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith entering from the bench.
There are so many considerations occurring privately, however the coaches decide to go, this will present New Zealand difficulties.
That has not always been the narrative facing New Zealand, when attention concentrated solely on picking the right player.
On this occasion, either playmaker selected will pressure the All Blacks under real pressure.
Fin's ability to pick the right kick and execute for a potential 50-20 can take pressure off the national team.