Three years ago Queensland’s long-term hold on the Origin shield finally loosened after a grinding and enthralling New South Wales series victory. That win was supposed to herald a new beginning for the Blues, but when they had the opportunity to defend the shield for the first time in nearly a decade, it was clearly evident nothing had changed …

Queensland, still fielding a squad which will be for a long time regarded as the greatest to ever grace the Origin arena, responded like true champions, winning consecutive shields over the following years. These days, as a result, that Blues win in 2014 seems more like a one-off success rather than a dramatic shift in dominance.

The 2017 series holds so much significance. For the first time in over a decade there is panic up north and real optimism and confidence down south. A series win for NSW, whether it’s wrapped up in Game 2 or is won in a decider back in Queensland, will usher in a period for the Blues that can be viewed with much promise and excitement, and will this time knock Queensland off its perch.

Maroons coach Kevin Walters has responded as expected after his side’s humiliating loss in Game 1. An emergency SOS and apology text was sent to Billy Slater, and Johnathan Thurston returns to lead an attack that sorely missed his experience and composure.

The heat is on Cameron Smith and his Maroons for Game 2. (Photo by Getty Images)

A lot of fans south of the border have given their rivals stick for panic-type changes after the first game, something synonymous with NSW’s selection tradition, but doesn’t Queensland deserve the right to make this type of decision as well? Ten wins out of the past 11; there is clearly a dynasty to protect.

Yes, seven players were cut, and yes, of those players some have been there before and won countless Origins, but as NSW fast tracks itself into the future, Queensland has realised it has to start somewhere in regards to repairing its protective wall.

There is a lot on the line for NSW leading into Game 2. A series loss and NSW has to start again. It will remain stuck in Queensland’s shadow, still trying to chase success.

New South Wales’s destiny and future is very much in its own hands. Then again, one game down and heading to Sydney, it’s also very easy to say that in order to save its Origin campaign, the ball is very much in Queensland’s half of the field ...