Queensland "have a plan" for Josh Papalii to silence the doubters that they say will ensure he is back to his best for the State of Origin decider.
The 22-game Origin veteran has been quiet across the series, playing about 15 minutes before returning for the final five in both games.
Bench forward Pat Carrigan has been one of the Maroons' stars in a longer stretch either side of halftime.
Carrigan was the only Queensland big man to notch more than 100m during the 44-12 loss in Perth, where the Blues' forwards dominated.
There is chatter the pair could swap roles in Wednesday's game three at Suncorp Stadium as the Maroons look to reignite the leader of the pack.
"With Paps, we've got a plan with what he's going to do," centre Valentine Holmes said.
"I won't say (what it is), but I'm expecting him to play well."
Captain Daly Cherry-Evans acknowledged the external pressure that had built on Papalii this series, but waved away any concerns with a wry smile.
"There has been a bit of external noise on where he's at and what people think is a good game for Josh Papalii," the halfback said.
"That challenge has been laid to him and whenever it has, he's responded."
"We're excited about where Paps' mentality is this week ... when people start to talk about you, the only way you've got to respond is your football.
"I can't wait to run out there with Paps, I know he's going to be right up for it."
