The cutbacks have been noticeable on The Footy Show this year.
First, the band was replaced by a DJ. Many of the segments that would have required extra money/sets were gone. And then they put the grand final show in the studio.
Sterlo being back next year will be good for the footy banter, but it is a variety show and it needs humour and segments so hopefully Matty Johns will be back to bring back some humour and Nine will open up its chequebook a bit more.