Do you hear that sound? That, my friends, is Origin in the air.
With Magic Round this weekend, we're about to turn out attention to the marquee series, and more specifically player selections.
Earlier in the week I made a case for big changes for the Queenslanders. Here I am today to pose a question for the new New South Wales coach, Laurie Daley.
Do you pick and stick with the incumbents who got the job done last year, or do you turn to the in form players of the competition?
Here are the questions I see being asked. The players under pressure from those in far better, current, form.
For the record, I see Nathan Cleary as an automatic in. There's just no way he's not being called in if available.
1. Spencer Leniu vs Lindsay Smith/Max King
Spencer Leniu has a lights out Origin series last year. He was awesome!
Leniu changed the game when he came off the bench just under 12 months ago.
That said, he's way down on form. Way down.
Meanwhile Lindsay Smith, who I believe is the most underappreciated prop in the game, is the perfect foil off the bench. He did well for the Kangaroos and has been one of few Panthers players who can hold their head high.
Max King, again prior to Thursday, has been bashing down the door for Origin selection.
He's eligible to play for England, so if I'm Laurie Daley I'm absolutely making the call and ensuring he's in the Blues squad for game one.
I could understand sticking with Leniu but not at the expense of two players who are playing a much, much higher level.
