Game Day
Will be interesting to see whether NSW will emulate what they did last year when they made a stack of changes and were able to prevent a clean sweep at Suncorp.
I really like the make up of their backrow which is headlined by the return of the (Super) Bash Brothers. When playing together they've won 2 out of 3 games and have often rattled the Maroons with their brutal style of play. This game represents their first oppurtunity to star in the starting backrow and it'll be interesting to see whether or not it'll improve Bird's contribution who I felt was burdened by the five eigth responsibilities.
Joining them is the in-form Luke Lewis and the rampaging Anthony Watmough. This to me is the strongest formation of backrow forwards I've seen take part for NSW in some time and it will be interesting to see what kind of impact that has for them.
Then there is the new faces.
Michael Jennings returns after a slow start to the season. Without a fringe runner getting in his way it'll be interesting to see how he performs.
Both Kade Snowden and Tim Mannah will be making their debuts after an impressive 18 months of first grade football. Both seem destined for long careers in the Sky Blue so they'll be looking to make a good first impression.
In contrast, Michael Gordon and Jason King will go into this game realising this is their one and only shot at proving themselves as rep. players. Both players obviously did enough to impress selectors to earn themselves the opportunity, will they repay them?
Then there is the tale of making a good last impression, in this case Trent Barrett who's signalled that this will be his last game in the Sky Blue. Trent has had a habit of terrorising the Maroons, will he do it one last time?
However, there is one player who I feel could make all the difference.
Jarryd Hayne
The media has been circling this young fullback for awhile, but few remember this guy has the potential to act as saviour for the Blues with his diverse range of talents. Tonight, could be the night Jarryd Hayne not only saved the Blues but also salvaged his career.
And then there is Queensland. Over the past 5 years Origin has belonged to them and has been something of their playground where they've been able to taste victory under all sorts of scenarios. The one objective they've yet to complete yet is a clean sweep, an objective they'll be looking to complete tonight.
I know little has been made of this clash, which is an almighty shame because history shows that in 2007 and 2009 that Game 3 was by far the most entertaining game in the series. If history repeats, we could be in for an awesome night.
To each and every Blues fan, good luck. You've had it tough over the past five years, lets just hope your boys turn up for each other and most of all, for you.
For us Maroons fans...it's show time!
