The Waratahs can exploit "a very suspect" Crusaders lineout and snatch the Super 12 title from Canterbury on its home turf on Saturday, according to Brumbies hooker Jeremy Paul.

The Wallabies rake - who played an important role in the Brumbies' defeat of the Crusaders in the 2004 final, as well as their first round encounter this year - believed it to be a major weak link in an otherwise champion side.

And the statistics back him up.

The Crusaders finished last during the regular season in lineout figures - winning less than 70 per cent of their throws and stealing just 30 from the opposition.

Their opponents top the table with an almost 85 per cent win percentage and nearly double the steals (58).

While NSW has used their key jumpers Daniel Vickerman and Justin Harrison to great effect this year, the Crusaders have relied heavily on Chris Jack and generally struggle for other options in the vital set piece.

"I think everyone is writing them off but that is a great situation to be in," Paul said of the Waratahs.

"I think Canterbury have a very suspect lineout and that is the biggest strength of the Waratahs and I think they can definitely put some pressure on them and get a bit of ball.

"The teams that get smashed by the Crusaders are the ones that try and play the Crusaders' type of game against them.

"The Waratahs have a good kicking game, a good lineout and players that can put you under pressure, especially the backrow. If they take advantage of that I think they are a great chance."

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