Former Blues legend Brad Clyde believes NSW will dominate Queensland's forward pack on Wednesday night, draw first blood in this year's State of Origin and go on to break the Maroons' stranglehold and win the series.

Despite Queensland boasting a star-studded backline, Clyde believes the Blues' sheer power and versatility in the forwards will be the difference between the two sides.

"We're not thinking about them trying to win five in a row, we're focused on game one in 2010 in Sydney where we have a good record," he said at a promotion on the border of NSW and Queensland on Monday.

"We've prepared really well and I believe we have a good team with enough experience to win State of Origin - we have a very good chance of taking this one out.

"Queensland has a lot of injuries, their backline is outstanding but I think all games are won and lost in the forwards.

"We've got a very big, mobile forward pack which can do the job for us - our key strengths are our size and our ability to be versatile.

"Coming off the bench a lot of our forwards have the ability to play front row, back row, run wide and NSW has players who can create something and score tries from anywhere.

"Your seven, nine and one players are the integral key element of the modern game.

"(NSW halfback) Brett Kimmorley has been solid without being outstanding and I think he's looking to the forum of State of Origin to step up and really play well.

"(Queensland halfback) Johnathan Thurston has had a number of injuries with his shoulder and he will also be looking for the forum of State of Origin to really plant himself as the No.1 player in the game.

"Michael Ennis, I think, is also looking for something similar, he loves his football and Origin is a forum for greatness.

"Ennis and Kimmorley have a good combination at club level with the Bulldogs, and I think Timana Tahu has been working hard during the week to make sure he develops a good combination and understands all the plays.

"I just think game one is crucial as a platform to a successful series."

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