Division 1A
Saturday February 14
Cork v Kilkenny
Sunday February 15
Galway v Clare
Dublin v Tipperary
Even though it is early in the GAA year certain teams will be looking to make statements this weekend. Injuries, club commitments, and retirements are bothering Kilkenny, but the supporting cast have been known to shine in the spring before. Brian Cody will be watching how they cope with a Cork outfit that hopes to make an impact in the competition.
Having endured a difficult summer against Cork and Wexford in 2014 Clare will bring a bit of ambition and desire with them to Pearse Stadium. Galway went well in the Walsh Cup, but this clash with Clare represents a significant step up in intensity levels.
It will be interesting to see how Dublin fare in 2015 under Ger Cunningham. Renowned as an innovative coach with a sharp hurling mind how will Cunningham tweak Dublin's approach? The Parnell Park tussle against Tipperary promises to be physical.
Division 1B
Saturday February 14
Laois v Offaly
Limerick v Waterford
Sunday February 15
Wexford v Antrim
Usually competitive - games in this Division carry meaning. Everyone wants to climb the ladder into the top tier. 'Cheddar' Plunkett continues to extract decent displays from Laois, who seem to be quietly confident of outfoxing neighbours Offaly.
At the Gaelic Grounds Limerick's fixture with Waterford already has the cut of a critical contest in this pool - whoever wins will generate confidence and momentum. A loss may have severe implications which also ensures Antrim's trip to Wexford on Sunday can be deemed vital.
Wexford's qualifier adventure in 2014 hinted at their potential, but the grim way the journey ended offered a reminder of the distance left to travel. Getting out of 1B could help speed up the process.
Division 2A
Sunday February 15
Westmeath v London
Carlow v Wicklow
Kerry v Derry
Now under the stewardship of Fergus McMahon London will be anxious to produce a performance in Mullingar. With former Waterford boss Micheal Ryan at the helm Westmeath reckon a tilt at promotion is possible.
Carlow had encouraging moments in the Walsh Cup, while the victor between Kerry and Derry will leave themselves in a healthy position.
Division 2B
Sunday February 15
Donegal v Mayo
Down v Armagh
Meath v Kildare
Division 3A
Sunday February 15
Fermanagh v Fingal
Roscommon v Louth
Tyrone v Monaghan
