Penrith Panthers teammates say Michael Jennings can be the game-breaker for NSW in State of Origin II

THIS is the player who will win NSW tomorrow night's State of Origin game in Sydney and send the series into a thrilling decider.

Michael Jennings

THIS is the player who will win NSW tomorrow night's State of Origin game in Sydney and send the series into a thrilling decider.

That is the opinion of Penrith players past and present who spoke with The Daily Telegraph at a rain-drenched Centrebet Stadium last night in an attempt to unlock the enigma that is Michael Jennings.

Jennings will line up at centre for NSW as the Blues attempt to avoid defeat and a seventh successive series loss.

He will then be expected to return for Penrith in Sunday's match against Gold Coast at Skilled Park.

Panthers legend Mark Geyer didn't hold back when asked about Jennings.

"He will win NSW the game. That is how good he is," Geyer said.

"Jennings will be the game-breaker. He is doing things that I haven't seen since (former Brisbane and Queensland star) Steve Renouf.

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"Potentially, Michael can be as good as Renouf. Michael just has to realise the world isn't against him.

"He will kick arse for NSW and then hopefully come back and kick arse for Penrith."

Jennings has experienced a turbulent season, mixing some wonderful performances with a stint in NSW Cup for a perceived attitude problem.

Panthers teammate Michael Gordon said he knows when Jennings is ready to explode.

"When Michael stays busy on the field it means he is switched on," Gordon said. "Even when he zones out it only takes half a break and he turns it into something magical."I wouldn't want to mark up against him. A little bit of room and he's hard to stop. He has that ability to make a break and set up a try."

Arguably Penrith's greatest player, Greg Alexander, said Origin I showed what Jennings can produce.

"That performance showcased exactly what Michael Jennings can do," Alexander said. "Michael is dangerous when he has his mind on the job. When Michael is ready to play, he is among the most dangerous players in the NRL.

"The Blues need someone to bust up the Queensland defence and Michael may well be the man."

Former Panthers forward Frank Puletua said Jennings loves "the big stage" and "he will be the key".

 

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