Paul Gallen believes hooker Damien Cook and fullback James Tedesco will be the difference in the upcoming State of Origin series.
Blues coach Brad Fittler was able to stick with the pair for this year's series after they starred in the 2018 triumph.
Speaking on Macquarie Sports Radio, former NSW skipper Gallen predicted the combination to again cause headaches for the Maroons.
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"I think the difference that NSW is going to have in the games is Cook and Tedesco," Gallen said.
"That starts with Cook getting his hands on the ball every play.
"He was outstanding for them last year, mainly with his running game, which was perfect last year and that was his big strength, but this year I think he's gone to another level.
"He's still got that running game, he's still as fast as ever, but he's picked up his ball skills this year.
"He leads this competition in try assists, he's got a kicking game now."
Gallen said if the Blues' pack can get some forward momentum over their opposite numbers, Cook and co. would be able to do their thing.
"If they can just get a couple of quick play the balls and give Cooky an opportunity with Tedesco coming up the inside and outside of him, I think them two can be the difference," he said.
While NSW will be going in with three of the four members of the spine from last year's series - Cody Walker replacing James Maloney as the only change - Queensland are looking at a reshuffle.
Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga, who came off the bench in game two in 2018, will start at fullback, while Ben Hunt, who played at halfback last series, is expected to line up at dummy half.
Cameron Munster played all three games last year and will be joined by Manly playmaker Daly Cherry-Evans in the halves.
DCE made his Origin return in Queensland's successful game three.
While Queensland coach Kevin Walters will have to work out how to get his team singing from the same hymn sheet, Fittler too will have to integrate five Origin debutants into his side.
In a similar vein to last year, Fittler's side were seen holding hands on Bondi Beach on Monday morning, another example of the coach's left-field techniques.
Gallen said that sort of thing is all about building an understanding among the players.
"I think he knows blokes aren't going to go home and meditate and think what he thinks," Gallen said.
"But if you can get everyone on the same page in little situations like that, they'll all be on the same page at training and then hopefully they'll all be on the same page on game night which is the most important thing."
Game one takes place at Suncorp Stadium on June 5.
