So what did the Directors Guild tell us?
My guess would be Edward Berger for GermanysAll Quiet on the Western Frontor S.S. Rajamouli for the wildly inventiveRRR.
The list the 2500-strong nominating committee came up with held few surprises.

Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson in ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’Searchlight Pictures
Austin Butler, Colin Farrell, Brendan Fraser and Bill Nighy have been in every conversation.
The gambit didnt pay off here, but I expect it will with Oscars.
It is a movie centering on Hollywood and actors.

DGA
Speaking of that, has SAG set up a fascinating scenario that also could play out at the Oscars?
In the supporting categories, there wasnt a single shocker amidst a boatload of possibilities.
Paul Dano got the bid forFabelmansover 87-year-old Judd Hirsch, who had some heat for his extended cameo.
Thank God SAG has an ensemble category.
Take note of that, SAG voters.