Lots of points in Ireland and a Scotland handicap win tipped in Six Nations

The second weekend of Six Nations action is an interesting one, with Ireland hosting Wales and the winner taking a decent leap towards having their name engraved on the trophy.

Meanwhile, in Scotland, England are out to get their campaign back on track, knowing that Wales were crowned champions last season, despite losing their first game.

Scotland (+10 points) to beat England @ 1/1

Scotland have been especially bold in dropping captain Kelly Brown, although the feeling is replacement is Chris Fusaro will be far more influential at the breakdown.

The injury to Sean Maitland is a blow though, while Ross Ford will require major improvements with his line-out accuracy after a nightmare against Ireland.

England are unchanged and this looks promising, although a greater impact will be required from their substitutes than was displayed against France.

It is 1/6 that England beat Scotland, with the home side 5/1 for victory.

A Scotland victory with a 10-point headstart is also worth considering, as this bet would have landed in the last four encounters for the Calcutta Cup at Murrayfield.

Ireland v Wales: Over 36.5 points @ 5/6

It is five years since Ireland won their opening two fixtures of a Six Nations campaign and the return of Paul O’Connell to their ranks is a big fillip in their favour. They are favourites for victory at the Aviva Stadium at 4/5.

On the flip side, Wales are out to equal the record of six consecutive away victories in the Six Nations, but to do so they will have to step up on an average display in beating Italy. It is 6/5 that Wales beat Ireland.

Much could hinge on what has the biggest impact between the Welsh backs and the Irish scrum. Given the wet and windy conditions, it may be the latter.

The last two meetings between this pair have gone over 40 points, so taking the 5/6 for over 36.5 points could additionally be profitable.