France vs Italy
James: “France is proving me a bit wrong this tournament as they are playing hard and seem to be in every game. Though admittedly their defense did not perform as well in their game against Scotland, they should be able to handle Italy with no problem. France comes out victorious.”
Aaron: “Welp…its finally here…the Toilet Bowl. A match-up between the two least impressive teams (and winless) in the competition. I have to give this one to Les Bleus. Teddy Thomas has been one of the most electrifying try scorers in the tournament; especially with his brace of tries against the Scots. Weirdly enough he has been left out this week, probably due to injury. Even with out Thomas, I expect the French to gut the porous Italian defense. Italy has scored a few nice tries, however only when down by 20 or so points. Advantage: France.”
Ireland vs Wales
James: “Wales is getting back some key players in Dan Biggar, Leigh Halfpenny, and Liam Williams, but at the same time they will be losing Rhys Patchell and Taulupe Faletau will not be making his debut for the tournament. Wales played well in their last match, which was very controversial with a possible missed try call, against England. While I think this could be a really good match, I feel as though Ireland will win even if Wales has been their kryptonite the past few years.”
Aaron: “This has the ability to become a trap game for the Irish. After completely demolishing the Italian defense I wouldn’t be surprised if the Irish come out a little over-confident against a stout Welsh defense. Although the Welsh lost last week to England, they only surrendered 12 points. If they can play at the same level of defense and ramp up their scoring they could steal this game. In the end, I have to pick Ireland. They have been in top form and should win again. But, like I said, I wouldn’t be shocked if they dropped this match to Wales. Advantage: Ireland.”
England vs Scotland
James: “Will the real Scotland please stand up? Scotland looked like what we had expected from them before the tournament began in their win against France. But they also looked downright awful against Wales. Scotland will need to play their absolute best if they want to beat England. However, I don’t see Scotland pulling this out. England wins.”
Aaron: “CAN ANYBODY STOP ENGLAND?! The English have been proving that they are the best team in the competition. They have multiple playmakers in their back-line and some incredible forwards. Owen Farrell is an outstanding inside center with the playmaking ability of a fly-half. England’s two wingers, Anthony Watson and Johnny May, have been unstoppable with two tries a piece in the competition. Scotland looked to have gained their winning form just in time for this match. Even after giving up the early try to France, the Scots held on and eventually came away with the win. Greg Laidlaw is an absolute must-have if the Scots want to keep scoring points. Unfortunately for the Scots the wily scrum half won’t be enough to overcome the talent and depth of the English side. Advantage: England.”
Rowe Sports Talk Network 