Most people would appear stressed compared with vegan-loving, mindful breathing yoga fan Brad Fittler.
But cracks seem to be appearing in Queensland’s veneer with the usually unflappable Maroons coach Kevin Walters snapping at reporters when announcing his team ahead of Sunday’s must-win State of Origin game two in Sydney.
The traditionally wise-cracking Walters has been short and irritable with the press since.
It has been in stark contrast to his opposite number, rookie Blues mentor Fittler.
The former NSW captain appears to have struck gold with his laid-back, left field approach.
And he was at it again when he started his game two camp with the entire squad walking barefoot on their training ground so they could “soak up the nutrients from the earth”.
So is Walters feeling the heat? Are the once mighty Queensland vulnerable?
Walters may have had no time for “nutrient walks” at Queensland’s Gold Coast camp before they flew into Sydney on Friday.
However, Queensland captain Greg Inglis insisted that Walters had run a relaxed Maroons camp and that his troubled demeanour came down to ramming home the occasion for the team.
Ahead of his 32nd Origin, Inglis rated game two as the biggest of his Maroons career as Queensland look to stay alive in the series.
It looms as the Maroons’ greatest challenge after a stunning run of 11 series wins in the past 12 years as they begin life without retired Queensland greats Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston.
“I think Kevvie just wanted to make sure we understand what is on the line,” Inglis said of Walters’ manner.
“I think the boys get that. They know that. As the camp went on, we got a bit more relaxed.
“I think Kevvie just wanted to get into camp and get our training under our belt.”
Walters was so combative at the game two announcement, he even took exception to a question asking why his squad was named alphabetically.
“Because we are not sure of prop Dylan Napa (ankle). Is it too hard for everyone to work out? I am not answering that question any more,” Walters snapped.
Asked if he was frustrated, Walters barked: “I am actually very excited about what lies ahead – it is right up our alley.”