The return of the most intense rivalry in Australian sport, NSW v Queensland, could this year be billed as the Mighty Maroons versus the Mighty Gamble.
Blues coach Laurie Daley saw enough in his team's unexpected capitulation in last year's decider to ring in the changes and while some of his picks have raised eyebrows there is no doubt how he will look to play it.
This is a team that will aim to monster its way through the middle with a massive forward pack then put the finishing touches on with a far more attack-minded backline.
Just eight Blues players from last year's embarrassing 52-6 loss have survived (only one of those to have made way - winger Brett Morris - is unavailable for selection). There are four Holden State of Origin debutants plus recalls for two players who were unavailable in that game – Robbie Farah and Greg Bird – and further recalls from the Origin wilderness for James Maloney and Blake Ferguson.
In-form incumbents such as Trent Merrin, Beau Scott and Josh Morris can consider themselves unlucky but after such a heavy loss there were always going to be changes.
The choice of Manly centre Dylan Walker – who has been moved back to his preferred centre spot at club level after a unhappy stint at five-eighth to start the year – has raised plenty of eyebrows but while Walker has been below his best in 2016 there is no doubting his quality and Daley has expressed surprise that people are surprised by his inclusion. The fact he covers few positions other than centre will present a challenge if injuries strike.
A heavy focus on middle forwards means that two of the most potent edge back-rowers in the game – Boyd Cordner and Josh Jackson – will be able to fill their preferred roles but again there is little cover if things go awry.
The Maroons have had a few issues in their outside backs with fullback Billy Slater and centre Will Chamber sitting out with long term injuries to add to the retirement of centre Justin Hodges.
It means an Origin debut for Cowboys centre Justin O'Neill and bullocking Brisbane flanker Corey Oates. In-form Brisbane custodian Darius Boyd has been asked to fill the gap at the back with resurgent Rabbitohs skipper Greg Inglis in his customary left centre role.
Just two of the 17 players picked by rookie coach Kevin Walters could be argued to be out of form at club level. Of those, Manly prop Nate Myles suits up for his 30th Origin and has been among the best few players on the field in almost every win Queensland has earned over the past decade, meaning few would begrudge him a place. Aidan Guerra has also had a less-than-stellar start to the year in a struggling Roosters team but back in the Origin environment could show what he's capable of.
Skipper Cameron Smith becomes the most-capped player in Origin history in his 37th game for the Maroons, moving past the legendary Darren Lockyer.
Schick Hyrdo Preview: NSW VB Blues v Queensland XXXX Maroons
ANZ Stadium
Wednesday 8pm