Saturday's historic All Blacks loss to Ireland in Dunedin shows that there is some way for Ian Foster's side to go yet, with the Rugby World Cup now less than 14 months away.
The numbers and facts behind the All Blacks' recent displays prove just that: this side has lost four of its last eight test matches, and three of its last four.
After succeeding Sir Steve Hansen in the wake of a third-placed finish at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, Foster has overseen 23 tests, winning 16, losing six and drawing one.
That's a win record of 69.57 percent. Only Laurie Mains - 23 wins from 34 tests at 67.65 percent - holds a worse record as All Blacks coach in the World Cup era.
But take away results against sides like Tonga, Fiji and USA - opponents ranked outside World Rugby's top ten - and that winning record drops to 60 percent.
Another loss next week would take Foster's win percentage to a flat 67 percent, the worst of a modern All Blacks coach.
Foster oversaw a historic defeat to Argentina in 2020, before Saturday's loss gave Ireland its first win over the All Blacks on New Zealand soil.
Frustratingly, Foster's All Blacks have struggled to put together performances on a consistent basis.
Last year's 19-17 victory over the Springboks in Townsville was followed by a 31-29 loss on the Gold Coast a week later. Again, Saturday saw a similar feat, as the All Blacks couldn't back up their 42-19 win over Ireland a week previous.
Things won't get easier for the All Blacks either.
After next week's deciding test against Ireland at Wellington's Sky Stadium, Foster's side will travel to South Africa for two tests against the World Champions, in their own backyard.
But help could be on the way for the All Blacks.
Newshub understands Sam Whitelock will be able to rejoin the squad in Wellington this week.
The 33-year-old veteran of 133 test matches was forced out of Saturday's loss after a delayed concussion suffered at Eden Park.
Whitelock could be available for selection in the series decider, and would return to the fold with the All Blacks in desperate need of their best performance if they're to lift the series trophy next Saturday.
Join Newshub for live updates of the All Blacks v Ireland third test from 7pm Saturday.
