The penultimate round of this year's RBS Six Nations produced yet another thrilling weekend of rugby – teeing up an intriguing battle between Ireland and champions England.

Friday saw Wales upset Ireland in a physical affair then on Saturday England destroyed Scotland to stay top and France showed their class against the Italians.

England certainly didn't hold back, an exceptional attacking performance ended in them retaining their title after a 61-21 win. Scotland didn't live up to their good form but were blown away by the attacking and supporting lines of the English backs. Jonathan Joseph had a point to prove after being dropped last week; he certainly made his point with a three-try haul and man of the match performance.

So this leads to a mouth-watering tie for the grand slam against Ireland tomorrow. What a game we have, the pressure will be huge on England to make history with back-to-back grand slams and an 18-match winning run. This is exactly the kind of game Eddie Jones will thrive in. His ultimate goal of lifting the Webb Ellis Cup looks to be on track.

Scotland face Italy (12.30pm) in their final game and will look to put on a show for their passionate home crowd.

An impressive Wales beat Ireland 22-9, for me this was the best game of the weekend. The collisions were colossal, the Welsh defence was heroic, they managed to get the ball to George North more than in previous matches and he showed his class with two tries. Will Wales be able to keep the same intensity against France (2.45pm)? That's what they'll need to stand a chance against this progressive French team.

As predicted, France thrashed the disappointing Italians, as I've mentioned previously I would like to see a new country given the opportunity the Italians have had. Georgia would be my pick.

My predictions for the weekend are; France to beat Wales in a tight affair. My heart says England but my head says Ireland (5pm), at home and with nothing to play for they could sneak this one. The Italians to pick up the wooden spoon after Scotland run riot at Murrayfield.

With the Lions tour to New Zealand on the horizon this adds pressure for players to perform at their best and book their place on the plane.

Jonny O'Brien is a player and head coach at Norwich RFC