Gus explains why New South Wales can't afford to let Queensland dictate early, why the first 20 minutes could decide the series, and how players like Liam Martin and Addin Fonua-Blake should be used to put the Maroons on the back foot from the opening whistle.

Also in this episode:

• Why Gus was shocked by Brian To'o being left out
• The selection gamble on Jack Bostock
• How New South Wales should manage its bench in the biggest game of the year
• Why Queensland carries more pressure than people think
• Gus' memories of the old Lang Park and coaching Origin deciders in Brisbane
• An unexpected live phone call to Emma Lawrence after Gus correctly predicted she was about to start maternity leave
• Plus the latest on the NRL ladder, the start of the NRLW season, and your Ask Gus questions.