Not confident as such, because this is always our tough year with trips to Paris and London, even if the 3 home games in succession could be a great opportunity to build momentum if we can get off to a good start in Paris.
I'm happy with the depth we are building. There are two or three good players for both props, locks, probably 3 separate backrows who are all good internationals, really good options at centre and in the back 3. We could be stronger at hooker and while Carberry and McGrath are good players, we wouldn't want to be losing our world class halfbacks either.
What we need to see this six nations, is a real development of our attack. We have the talent and depth now where Joe can't get away with a conservative, safety first approach any more. I'd prefer us to finish 2nd or 3rd but show some real attacking endeavour, than win another championship playing defence and kick chase rugby.
That style is good enough for 6N but as we saw 3 years ago, it won't get you to the latter stages of a world cup and that has to be the end game for this team.
As for the other sides, I'm not as worried as most about England. I think they have real issues in their backrow, especially with Vunipola out. Underhill is a good prospect but Robshaw wouldn't make any of the 3 Irish backrows I mentioned and wouldn't get a look in at a Welsh or Scottish squad either.
Scotland worry me because Townsend will have them playing smart, expansive rugby with absolutely no fear of coming to Dublin for a result. I can see us being full of beans and confidence after good results against France, Italy and Wales and with the whole country whispering about a final day showdown in Twickenham, the Scots come over and put us to the sword.
My prediction:
Scotland (no Grand Slam)
Ireland
England
Wales
France
Italy
