Former NSW skipper Ben Elias claims the Blues' dire situation has presented the perfect opportunity for a new batch of State of Origin heroes to emerge on Wednesday night.

NSW's preparations for the must-win clash have bordered on shambolic - from the early uncertainty over who would be in the side to the racism row which has caused a split in the camp with assistant coach Andrew Johns and winger Timana Tahu both no longer with the side.

But Elias is adamant all is not lost for the Blues.

"Every one of those blokes should be so excited about the situation they're in because they can turn history on its head," Elias said.

"Against all odds, there's no better challenge.

"If you approach the game like that, what a great challenge and what a great day to change the world of State of Origin."

NSW are given little chance of upsetting a Queensland side aiming for its fifth straight series win at Suncorp Stadium, but according to Elias, this is the stuff from which legends are born.

It's a situation not unfamiliar to the former Balmain rake, who captained NSW to a series win in 1990 to end three years of Maroon dominance.

Their victory in game one of that series ended a record six-match winning - with Elias winning the second of his three man of the match awards.

"There's nothing more desperate than this situation we're in - everyone knows the situation," Elias said.

"These games make great players - this is the time where you become the player that stood up to be counted for.

"What a terrific challenge it is for Mitchell Pearce - he can make a big difference to State of Origin - all of a sudden he could be the orchestrator of a big turnaround for NSW.

"These are the games you long for as a player."

While they will confront a Queensland side considered by some to be the best to don the Maroon jersey, NSW coach Craig Bellamy will have little trouble motivating his troops in what is set to be a emotional cauldron on Wednesday night.

The fact the racist comments made by Johns, which led to Tahu's Blues walkout, were aimed at Maroons centre Greg Inglis will only add fuel to the fire.

Elias called on the Blues to use the emotion of the situation to their benefit, admitting there was good cause for a cleanout if the current batch didn't come up with the goods this time around.

"You can't underestimate the passion and emotion of this game," Elias said.

"If every one of these blokes isn't biting at the bullet and can't wait till Wednesday night, well, they're not the right blokes for the game."

NSW players were given the day off on Monday, given them some respite from what has been a glaring spotlight in recent days.

They won't get the opportunity to have a run at Suncorp Stadium with their final training run on Wednesday to be held at Ballymore.

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