So we’re all set for the new season, with excitement about Aviva Premiership always at its highest at this time of year. New players, new coaches, a chance of some sunshine and running rugby, and we can’t wait.

And here we go for another season of predictions – make sure you join our league on Superbru and see if you can clinch second place behind me and ahead of the chasing pack.

Gloucester v Exeter
Most people would have the Champions as favourites for this one, against a very inconsistent Gloucester side, but I’m leaning towards a pick for the home team. Exeter might be unbeaten in 17 matches in the league, but they started slowly last season, and this is a new start for everyone. Johan Ackermann should improve the Gloucester side as the season progresses, but the players will be desperate to start with a win in front of the new coach and their home fans, and that might just get them over the line. Gloucester by 2.

Average Superbru prediction: Exeter by 3.39 | Paddy Power Handicap: Exeter -3.5

Newcastle v Worcester
I can’t get terribly excited about these two teams. The Warriors have won four of the last five against the Falcons, and most of the home team’s new signings are not playing, so I think Worcester have a decent chance. Newcastle know they have to win their home games though, and the home side is the safer pick in this one. Newcastle by 4.

Average Superbru prediction: Newcastle by 2.93 | Paddy Power Handicap: Newcastle -7.5

Saracens v Northampton
It’s hard to pick against Sarries in any competition at the moment. They’ve beaten the Saints in 6 of their last 7 meetings, and have named a strong side that features Maro Itoje and George Kruis, with Alex Lozowski at fly-half. They look much stronger up front, and I think they’ll win comfortably at Twickenham. Saracens by 16.

Average Superbru prediction: Saracens by 9.38 | Paddy Power Handicap: Saracens -11.5

Wasps v Sale
This fixture has been won by the home team on the last six occasions, and I think Wasps will win this one. Sale have made a few half-decent signings, but Wasps look stronger across the board and should be title-contenders again this season. Wasps by 13.

Average Superbru prediction: Wasps by 8.2 | Paddy Power Handicap: Wasps -12.5

London Irish v Harlequins
Many people are expecting the Exiles to be relegated back to the Championship this season, but I think they’ll cause problems for a few teams as they find their feet again. I’m looking forward to seeing Quins’ highly-rated 18 year-old fly-half, Marcus Smith, in action at Twickenham – he’s surrounded by experienced, high-quality players and I’d expect them to get the win over London Irish. It might be different if it were a real home game for London Irish, but I think Quins will have the advantage of familiarity at HQ. Harlequins by 6.

Average Superbru prediction: Harlequins by 5.75 | Paddy Power Handicap: Harlequins -8.5

Leicester v Bath
This should be a great way to round off the opening set of fixtures, with George Ford straight in at fly-half for the Tigers to face his old club. By contrast, Freddie Burns is on the bench for Bath, having moved the other way. The Leicester back line looks irresistible on paper, with Ben Youngs partnering Ford, Matt Toomua and Manu Tuilagi in midfield, and a back three of Aussie 7s player Nick Malouf, ex-Gloucester speedster Jonny May and the impressive Telusa Veainu. Bath’s is pretty decent too, but I’m going with the home team at Welford Road. Leicester by 8.

Average Superbru prediction: Leicester by 3.82 | Paddy Power Handicap: Leicester -7.5

Follow Hutch on Twitter: @Hutch_James

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