Six Nations Forecasts: France vs Ireland

The Stade de France has rarely been a particularly happy hunting ground for Ireland, but can they overturn the odds this year?

France began their campaign with a steady, if unspectacular, victory against Italy with brilliance in flashes, but equally large periods of torpor, was this simply not wishing to go all out too early or the sign of a deeper malaise? Ireland began with a thrilling game against Wales and were only denied in the last minute, interesting then that coverage now seems to portray France as streets ahead and Ireland far far behind when, at least in my view, the gap is much narrower.

France are not a nation that likes the favourites tag, but with a new manager following on from a strong World Cup campaign that is what they must surely be. A strong scrum is paired with equally strong backs, if their is an area of weakness it is perhaps in the half backs, who when rattled can go a little awry. Similarly whilst Rougerie and Fofana look strong it must be emphasised that this is only Fofana's second game and if Ireland can get the likes of Heaslip and O'Brien in amongst them from the offset it may open up chances for their more nimble backs.

Ireland have a similarly strong scrum but severe questions were raised over the three quarters ability to deal with big centres and quick forwards in their defeat to Wales. It is possible that a more experienced centre pairing may hold the backline together a little better, and that the likes of Kearney & Bowe will feel they have a point to prove after last week.

As I said before, I think these two sides are much more closely matched that the media appears to be making them out, and whilst I feel France have the edge, I don't believe Ireland will be humiliated either - France by 7

What do you think? Where have I got it right / wrong?