Early 6 Nations Preview

The 6 Nations after a World Cup year is usually a good time for countries to bring in new changes. England, France and Italy all have new coaches. I expect a very open tournament with plenty of exciting games. Here's a look at the prospects of each nation.

Ireland
The Irish regions are in very good form at the moment and I think Ireland will start as joint favorites for the Championship with France. Two things initially stand-out, no O'Driscoll for the tournament; and will there be a hangover from their disappointing World Cup exit?
I expect Ireland to be the most consistent team of the tournament, and with the strength in their experienced forwards they will be difficult to beat. Ominously for the other nations both 10s, Sexton and O'Gara are in good form at the moment. Ireland to win a very close championship.
Predicted finish: 1st

France
The World Cup runners-up have Philippe Saint-Andre as their new coach. Predicting the form of France is a fruit-less task, though it's safe to expect the unexpected. Saint-Andre hasn't picked many new faces from the squad that played in the World Cup. In recent years the biggest flaw in the French team was having an unsettled first 15. If the new coach can give key players, such as Trinh-Duc, a run of games, then France can more successfully develop their brand of total rugby.
France may get off to a slow start in the tournament but I expect them to win most of their games.
Predicted finish: 2nd

England
The only way is up for the men in white after a nightmare last few months for the national team. A new coach, in Stuart Lancaster, though likely to just be an interim solution. As such, I expect England to really roll the dice (by their own standards) and blood some young players in key positions. Farrell at 10 and Ben Morgan at 8 should definitely get at least two starts. The main problem with England is their lack of creativity. Their backs in general don't have the natural flair or creativity compared to other teams. (France, Wales). That said, England always possess a strong set of forwards which ensures they are a match for any team.
With Toby Flood injured for the opening game the selectors have called up Charlie Hodgson, which amazes me. Charlie has had so many poor games for England that his international career should be truly over by now. How many chances does a player need to prove he's not international class? I don't care if Charlie's club form is excellent, he'll never the cut the mustard in my eyes.
Predicted finish: 3rd

Wales
Arguably the best performing 6 Nations team at the World Cup. Though this translated in Wales dropping 2 positions in the IRB rankings - how strange. Wales have struggled in the last 20 years to string together two consecutive good seasons. Which means the Welsh will have a disappointing year in 2012. Pundits may point towards a fresh crop of exciting young talent, North, Priestland, Faletau et al but that doesn't necessarily create a successful team.
It is worth highlighting the enormous talent of Dragons number 8 Toby Faletau. Still only 19 and one of the stand-out players of the World Cup, this kid should be one of the stars of the tournament. It will be fascinating to see how he responds to being a marked man. I'm sure he'll rise to the challenge.
So why have I only predicted a 4th place finish for my beloved Wales? Simple - the fixture list. England and Ireland away, two defeats. I'm actually a bit worried about the Irish backlash. I think the margin of victory will be over 20 points. Wales have France at home in March and by that stage Les Bleus should be too good for the men in red.
My one hope for the tournament is that Jason Tovey gets selected ahead of Dan Biggar in the squad.
Predicted finish: 4th

Scotland
Must be slightly depressing to be a Scotland supporter. A lack of world class players over the last 10 years means it's all about the "team" performance. Coach Andy Robinson is making steady progress with the talent available and in lock Richie Gray they have a potential Lions pick for 2013.
I was a fan of Nick De Luca when burst onto the scene but he hasn't really caught fire at International level.
Scotland will be competitive but they lack that bit of class to break into the top 3.
Predicted finish: 5th

Italy
Former Perpginan coach, Jacques Brunel, is the new man in charge of Italy. I think Italy are still years off regularly recording two wins in the championship. Difficult to know what difference Brunel can make in his first season. The Wooden Spoon beckons again.
Predicted finish: 6th