South Africa's traditional approach to the breakdown has revolved around being more physical than their opponents. It's an approach that worked well in the Schalk Burger era, but this year the Boks, through Brussow's efforts, have added guile to their physicality at the vital contest.
And it is bugging the Irish.
Brussow was depicted in the cross-hairs of a rifle telescope under the heading "007 - Licence to Steal". As with most opponents who have come across Brussow this year, they don't know how to stop him - even though they know what to expect.
"No, I don't think I've changed the way the Springboks play," Brussow said modestly. "The key, I believe, is that the team has been together for so long that experience is winning us games.
"A ruck is difficult to control because every referee blows it slightly differently. Some refs give you the opportunity to keep your hands on the ball longer, and others penalise you much quicker.
"I've always been small, so I realised I had to do something that fits my body if I wanted to be competitive. I've worked hard on my technique and strength at the breakdown, and so far it's been going well for me."
It has worked so well that Burger, once seen as the immovable object in the Bok No6 jersey as long as he remained fit, has had to make way for the 23-year-old Free Stater.
Burger is still an immense physical presence, but Brussow's better technique is the reason why he is in possession of the openside position.
Despite his relative youth he understands the laws, and is already pinpointing the differences between northern and southern hemisphere approaches to forward play.
"It's more physical here because they keep the ball well and demand more of you from a strength point of view," Brussow said.
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