Stats Insider: Maroons v Blues by the numbers

Mitchell Pearce has hit the nail on the head: he admits he needs to step up for the Blues in Game One of the 2012 State of Origin series. But he’s not alone.

Five crucial Origin I match-ups

Greg Alexander looks at the big five match-ups that will decide the opening game of State of Origin.

Queensland not fooling anyone

Queensland coach Mal Meninga raised a few eyebrows when he described the Maroons team as looking frail, but he isn't fooling anyone, writes Leila McKinnon.

Queensland name Civoniceva and Gillett

Queensland have named stalwart Petero Civoniceva and debutant Matt Gillett for the Origin opener in Melbourne.

Origin I more important for Queensland: Walters

Queensland need to win the first game of the series or will face a massive mountain trying to defend their title at a hostile ANZ Stadium, writes Kevin Walters.

Peter Sterling's NSW Origin 17: Game One

NSW Origin great Peter Sterling reveals the team he would pick for the Blues for State of Origin I.

Stats Insider: NSW backs by the numbers

With debate raging about who should get the call up for the Blues in this year's Origin series, the Stats Insider has his say on NSW's best backline candidates.

In Touch: Origin of passion

Why do NSW continually pick players out of position and what was Brad Fittler thinking when he suggested Jarryd Hayne should be Australia's five-eighth?