Brisbane Broncos 2012 season preview

The legendary figure of Darren Lockyer has departed but a new generation is ready to fill the void.

How will the Broncos perform minus their talisman Darren Lockyer? The answer to that question is likely to define Brisbane’s campaign. 

Youngsters Ben Hunt and Corey Norman are vying to fill the number six jersey but Peter Wallace is expected to assume responsibility for guiding the team around the field. 

Petero Civoniceva has returned and his experience, along with that of Corey Parker and new captain Sam Thaiday, will be key. 

Brisbane’s backline is arguably the best in the competition when fully fit and they have a host of exciting prospects waiting in the wings. 

Former Penrith man Wallace has hardly set the world on fire since arriving in Queensland but if he can deliver this year the Broncos are sure to be in the Premiership mix.

Prediction: 4th  

Players in: Petero Civoniceva (Penrith) and Luke Capewell (Gold Coast)

Players out: Darren Lockyer, Shane Tronc and Nick Kenny (All retired) 

Coach: Anthony Griffin – Thrust into the hotseat just weeks before the start of last season, Griffin showed himself to be an astute replacement and will be looking to build on a highly promising debut campaign in 2012.

Star man: Sam Thaiday – Already on his way to becoming a Broncos and Queensland legend, arguably the best back rower in the game and the ideal man to replace Lockyer as captain.

Breakthrough year: Josh McGuire – One of the most improved forwards in the game and a potential bolter for the Queensland and Australia squads.

Young gun: Dane Gagai – Prolific winger who scored four times in seven first grade matches last season and likely to be given even more opportunities in 2012.