Ciarán Whelan's provincial championship predictions

Speaking on the latest RTÉ GAA Podcast, Ciarán Whelan, while accepting that provincial combat has lost its significance given the new championship structure, he did highlight some points of intrigue as action gets underway this weekend.

The former Dublin star assessed the lie of the land in each of the four provinces.

ULSTER

Derry's performance in the league final was top drawer; they have been building and developing. The expectation now has reached a very, very high level. They are back against Donegal in a couple of weeks.

For me there is a need in Armagh to win an Ulster championship. They are on the right side of the draw and you would fancy if they played to their potential they will reach an Ulster final.

On the other side of the draw you have Derry and Donegal, with Tyrone waiting; also Monaghan and Cavan.

I would expect Armagh to be in an Ulster final and there is an absolute urgency for them to win something. They have to go for it and they have to take risks. If they play with the conservative mindset we've seen them play with at times they'll be caught again.

Ultimately this is crunch time for Armagh. They would be my outside tip. Derry may have their eye on a bigger prize having won the league - and may be thinking a little bit down the track. Mickey Harte will want to win an Ulster Championship - complete the three in a row - but Armagh's need is a little bit more, to get that bit of silverware.

CONNACHT

I look at Connacht and I think it's important for Kevin [McStay] and Mayo to make a statement and get a bit of silverware in the cabinet. I firmly believe that.

Mayo definitely will have their eyes on winning a provincial title and taking a different route to last year.

Looking at Galway throughout the league, yes