One game down and the questions that we were asking this time last week have only increased. The Wales result may not have been perfect but it at least sends us off to Paris in good spirits. Had Wales held on for a win then the mindset would be significantly different right about now.
However, the draw, coupled with France's leaky performance against Italy means that expectations are still in tact as we head for the Stade de France. Having said that, those expectations could take a bit of a blow later today when Joe Schmidt names his team with injuries once again the big talking point.
Sean O'Brien looks set to return to the side in place of Tommy O'Donnell in the only forward change but as of yet, there's no certainty surrounding the likes of Rob Kearney, Keith Earls, Simon Zebo, Andrew Trimble or, most worryingly, Johnny Sexton.
Sexton, Kearney and Trimble should all be confirmed fit if they can come through training this morning and with Joe Schmidt set to name his starting XV around 12.30, it would a bit of a surprise if any of those three were to miss out. The one remaining spot on the wing is slightly more difficult to figure out.
The concussion sustained by Keith Earls last Sunday would suggest that it's unlikely he'll be able to retain his position. If the Munster man is unavailable then it's between Simon Zebo and Dave Kearney as to who will step into the breach. Zebo was suffering with a knee injury against Wales but in what looks likely to be a bit of a toss of a coin at this moment in time, we'll side with Zebo and hope that he can come through training in good stead this morning.
See also: Keith Wood Told Of Paul O'Connell's Unparralled Impatience In His Early Ireland Days
Likely Ireland starting to face France:
