2016 6 Nations

The six nations kicks off this weekend. So I get a number of rugby games to swear and point and laugh at. Most of this will consist of: FFS not one of the ruck, again.

Picks this year? I'm still favouring Scotland and Wales. This year with a little more justification than normal.

England
Eddie looks like he wants to bring some solidity to the English, which means dull dead forward play. Expect a lot of wandering mauls and bash up the middle. I think Ed has realised their backs don't have the confidence or ability to play quickly, which reflects their weakness at halfback and first five (flyhalf). I think they're dead in the water, the press will hype them but that's all it will be, Eddie however is good at playing the long game so in a year or so...

Position: 4th, 3rd optimistically

Ireland
More dull uninspiring play from a team of also-rans. I dunno, I just find it all a bit predictable, there's hope in the team, but haven't seen much that could create an exciting game.
Position: 3 or 4

Italy
I think wooden spoon this year.
Position 6, unless France are appalling...

France
yeah your guess is as good as mine. Potential winners of the competition, or utter crap. They have the players, but whether they get picked and then perform make picking winning lotto numbers seem easy. If they get their half back and first five firing, they'll clean up.
Position: 1,2 or 5.

Wales
I don't think there's too many of them injured/dead going into the tournament, so assuming WazzaG has lined up 45-60 men (knowing their ability to break, literally) there's a good chance he'll get through the next few weeks without Shane Howarth's granny being called up. The enthusiasm is great, the tackling on the wrong side - not so much, unless you're aiming for concussion, in which case, top marks lads.
Position: 1 or 2

Scotland
Had a great world cup, very unlikely not to get further. But they play as a team - without too many outstanding stars. I like what Vern has done, and the speed of the backs is good - with good ball coming through from the forwards. Should be more belief that they can hang on to win games now, so I'm optimistic. I don't think they'll win, but they will avoid the wooden spoon, potentially getting in the top 2 or 3. I'm pondering backing them (with moolah) for the Calcutta cup this weekend.

Position: 2 or 3.