Obviously overshadowed by Dublin waiting in the wings, but the Leinster Championship often throws up fairly entertaining and competitive games not featuring the Dubs. Laois and Longford will be tight, especially in Portlaoise, but the rumblings coming out of Laois wouldn't be that positive. Michael McGeechin got relieved of his coaching duties due to a cost cutting measure, and I don't think Peter Creedon and his backroom team remaining were too happy about it. Laois are a funny crowd so despite getting relegated they may well beat Longford at home, and in fact I fancy them to do so.
Wexford and Carlow another potentially close game. Wexford going well with Banty, but Westmeath showed they still have a long way to go. More positive sounds coming out of Carlow recently, so don't be surprised if Home Advantage causes an upset here.
Louth should have too much for Wicklow, but again the venue may be a factor. Wicklow will be fired up as always, and will sow it into Louth early on, but Louth are now a Division 2 team in waiting, so they should be too good for Wicklow.
