Predicting a winner of the NRL grand final is a difficult assignment, but predicting the winner of the Clive Churchill Medal is nearly impossible.
Still, there are a number of players who should figure highly in consideration.
Could one of these players join men such as Alan Langer, Peter Sterling, Andrew Johns and Bradley Clyde?
From South Sydney there are a few clear stand outs.
Greg Inglis
Inglis is perhaps the most gifted player in the game at the moment, and if he gets going South Sydney will be almost impossible to beat.
Adam Reynolds
If he can stay calm and guide his team to glory he will go down as a South Sydney legend.
Sam Burgess
In his last game for the Rabbitohs (for now), Burgess will be fired up to leave on the highest possible note.
Issac Luke
If he is able to avoid suspension he will be one of most dangerous players on the field with his runs from dummy half and bruising defence.
George Burgess
Has a big job setting a platform for the likes of Reynolds and Inglis to thrive.
Potential dark horses
Dylan Walker
This exciting young prospect could play for Australia as early as this year. He has a roving commission which makes him that much more dangerous.
Luke Keary
A great young player who has taken Souths to another level. May just produce the defining play of the grand final
The Bulldogs perhaps do not have the same star power as Souths but they are a special club with some players who will fight to the very end.
Tim Lafai
This great young centre is a huge point of attack for the Bulldogs. If he gets good, clean ball he may really trouble his opposing number.
Josh Reynolds
‘Grub’, as he is known, plays with passion and will do anything to win, but his skills are often overlooked, with people just focusing on his niggle.
James Graham
One of my favourite players in the league – if he ever feels like coming to the Roosters I will be over the moon. He will take the Souths pack head-on.
If he, a Burgess or Luke win the Clive Churchill Medal they will become the first non-Australians to do so.
Josh Jackson
The best young second-rower in the game, he is a brilliant, tough player and will come under serious consideration for Origin next year.
Potential dark horses
Trent Hodkinson
He would figure much higher in my thoughts for potential winners if it weren’t for the injury to his knee.
Tony Williams
Will need to stand up and be counted if the Dogs are to win. If he is able to get Souths on the back foot with his runs he may just take the Dogs to grand final glory.
Drum roll please for my Clive Churchill Medal winner prediction…
Sam Burgess. I know, not a huge risk but Burgess can lead Souths to victory.
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