State of Origin Rugby 2013: Schedule, Dates, Kickoff Times and Series Prediction

The 2013 State of Origin Rugby series is shaping up to be a classic edition of Australian sport's greatest rivalry. The New South Wales Blues have failed to win the best-of-three series in the last six years but made a big statement by winning the first.

New South Wales, which has failed to beat the Queensland Maroons since 2006, claimed Game 1 with a thrilling 14-6 victory that displayed the physicality and competitiveness that make this a great series. It was the first time that the team has won the opening match since 2008.

The job isn't done for the Blues, though. They've won at least one game of the best-of-three in six of their last seven defeats. As Roz Kelly of Australia News 9 tweeted, there's still plenty of rugby to be played in the series.

Here's a look at the upcoming schedule and preview for the last two games of the series.

Date	Time	Away	Home	TV Info	Location
June 5	6:00 a.m. ET	Queensland	New South Wales 14	Fox Soccer (replay at 8:00 p.m)	ANZ Stadium, Sydney
June 26	6:00 a.m. ET	New South Wales	Queensland	Fox Soccer	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
July 17	6:00 a.m. ET	Queensland	New South Wales	Fox Soccer	ANZ Stadium, Sydney

Player to Watch: Luke Lewis

If the Blues are going to continue their strong play and capture the State of Origin shield, they'll need to continue to see strong performances from star Luke Lewis. As NRL.com tweeted, he was the man of the match in Game 1.

Lewis' contributions were numerous. His strong running and tackling were instrumental to NSW jumping out to a 14-0 lead in the first half.

If he can continue to be the best player in the series, the Maroons will have a difficult time countering. One of the many stars on the Queensland side will need to step up in Game 2.

Key Question: Will Queensland Respond?

Queensland might have been taking its domestic rivals lightly in Game 1. After Queensland dominated this series for so many years, that may be understandable, but the Maroons didn't appear ready for the physicality that the Blues brought to the table.

This time, there's no excuse for a slow start.

A 14-0 first half changed the complexion of Game 1. The Blues simply needed to protect the lead, while the Maroons' improved play led to a comeback of sorts that fell short. This time, Queensland has to come more prepared to play right away.

Queensland has owned this rivalry in recent years and will be challenged to claim that ownership in Game 2. Can the Maroons respond?

Prediction

This is a star-studded series, and NSW taking the first match has suddenly turned it into an exciting one. It appeared that the Maroons had figured things out by the end of the second half. Although they didn't come away with the win, there's something to be said for shutting out the Blues in the second half.

With the home-field advantage and plenty of motivation after taking one on the chin, expect Queensland to even this thing up in Game 2.

Game 2 score: Queensland 20, New South Wales 12

With the series potentially tied, Game 3 could be a legendary match in this series' history. However, the series shifts back to Sydney, which could be the deciding factor. The Blues have already shown they have Queensland's number at home.

Game 3 score: New South Wales 18, Queensland 10