The Couch Pundit

My brief take on this years RaboPro12 in 12 sentences along with predicted final positions.

Benetton Rugby: 2012/13 marked a high point but realistically they are going to be at the wrong end of the table, as usual.

• Prediction: 11^th

Cardiff Blues: Generally disappointing but established and emerging talents such as Rees, Jenkins, Warburton, Halfpenny, Pretorious, Cuthbert and young Rhys Patchell could make them a genuine force.

• Prediction: 03^rd

Connacht Rugby: After the steady hand of Eric, 2013/14 marks a new era for the men from the Wesht, realistically it will be the same as usual as they can’t do much worse.

• Prediction: 08^th

Edinburgh: A new coach and a raft of new players but the same inconsistency will see little progress.

• Prediction: 09^th   

Glasgow Warriors: Have retained the talent that brought success last year and have an opportunity to capitalise on Irish uncertainty to be in the final shake up this season.

• Prediction: 05^th

Leinster Rugby: Regardless of the new manager and player merry-go-round they will still be one of the top teams but it’s impossible to tell if they will have the consistency to retain the title.

• Prediction: 02^nd

Munster Rugby: Like Leinster there is uncertainty and it is questionable as to whether they have replaced the talent lost, will struggle to meet usual high standards.

• Prediction: 04^th

Newport Gwent Dragons: The runt of the Welsh litter will cause one or two scares but ultimately battle to prop the table with the Italian teams.

• Prediction: 10^th

Ospreys: Not used to sharing the Welsh spotlight, they were overshadowed last season and despite the fact they will probably beat a few Irish teams this year, will be mid table.

• Prediction: 06^th

Scarlets: The loss of Williams, North and Rees will be keenly felt and probably undo a lot of the good work done last season.

• Prediction: 07^th

Ulster Rugby: With 10,000 extra Ulster men and women in Ravenhill standing up for a talented and settled team this is their season, as long as they don’t bottle.

• Prediction: 01^st (Champions)

Zebre: Will run on to the pitch, play until they run out of steam and then go home.

• Prediction: 12^th