Speed, speed, speed – it’s the secret to NSW’s bid for success in the State of Origin opener on Wednesday night. They’ve tried using skill, they’ve tried using brute force, they’ve even tried going the biff – now the Blues are reaching for last resorts as they look to stop the Queensland juggernaut bidding for four straight series wins.

Across the park NSW have built a side designed for speed, with lightning fast centre Michael Jennings the ace in the pack.

But it’s not just out wide that the Blues will look to be quick, with hooker Robbie Farah set to give NSW more spark around the ruck than they had with reliable veteran Danny Buderus in the No.9 jumper.

The plan is all designed to nullify the impact of the Queensland pack, which is led by the front row combination of Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva.

Price and Civoniceva may be the best props in the game, but they are a lot closer to their last Origin that they are to their first and could become passengers if the game gets quick.

Nullify that duo, and the remainder of the Maroons pack may fold, leaving the star-studded backline stranded without momentum or field position like an unused Ferrari sitting in the garage.

The Blues have finally taken a leaf out of Queensland’s book and picked a side on form – as evidenced by the blooding of seven Origin rookies.

While there is no doubt the Maroons appear superior on paper, Origins are rarely decided by reputation, highlighted by the success of the normally underdog Queenslanders.

The Blues can’t let Queensland dictate terms, because the likes of Greg Inglis, Billy Slater and Israel Folau will run rampant.

If that starts happening, NSW’s best defence may be a quiet prayer.

© AAP 2012

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