We've got four games on the card and the beauty of it all is that every one of them could go either way.
It’s the magic of this year’s championship, there’s uncertainty, there’s competitiveness across the board and it’s due to a mix of more evenly matched teams, the teams that make up each group, and also the impact of the new rules have all combined for this year’s championship probably becoming the most unpredictable one we’ve had in years, and certainly the most enjoyable.
So let’s dive into the action.
First up, Louth, Leinster champions welcome Monaghan. On paper, Monaghan are favourites. Their league form, past performances and even their showing against Donegal all point to that. But this is a local derby, and we know how those can throw the form book out the window.
Louth will feel the sting of not having a true home venue, but their Leinster title win has given them momentum. Could that be enough to cause an upset? I wouldn’t rule it out. This one will be tight, and Louth might just have a surprise in store.
Next, Meath host Cork, and this is another fascinating clash. Cork are coming off the back of a huge performance against Kerry, and while this is an away game, they’ll be keen to build on that confidence-building performance.
Meath, on the other hand, have had a tough few weeks, but the return of Jordan Morris is a big boost for them. Can they steady the ship and hold off a fired-up Cork side? It’s a tough ask, and Cork might just have the edge here.
Then we have Armagh taking on Derry. On paper, Armagh should have enough to get the job done, but Derry are reportedly back to their best, judging by the whispers from the friendly circuit.
If Armagh’s attitude is even slightly off, Derry will be ready to pounce. This one could be closer than many expect, and it’ll be fascinating to see how it plays out.
And finally, the game of the weekend – Donegal versus Tyrone. Both teams had nail-biting encounters with Armagh recently, but Donegal came out on top of theirs and looked like a team on a different level for much of the Ulster final.
They’re starting to look like real All-Ireland contenders.
But here’s the thing, Tyrone have had a month to prepare for this. They’ll have done their homework, and if Donegal show any signs of a hangover from the Ulster Championship, Tyrone will be ready to ambush them.
This one has all the ingredients for a classic, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the spoils are shared in what promises to be a cracker.
So four games, all incredibly hard to call. This is exactly what we want from the championship – competitive, unpredictable, and quality football.
Paul Flynn was speaking on Morning Ireland
