LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Despite the series loss, Brian To'o emerged as a standout player for NSW and a deserving winner of the Brad Fittler medal.
However, this award also sheds light on the issues that plagued the Blues throughout the series.
They were simply outplayed and out-matched by the Maroons, with their lone victory in the dead-rubber third game unable to salvage the series.
One cannot overlook the impact of Queensland coach Billy Slater, who has now secured back-to-back series victories over Fittler and his team.
Slater's selections and strategies proved pivotal in out-manoeuvring the Blues.
To'o's performances throughout the series were impressive, particularly in terms of his metres gained.
Across the three games, he averaged a staggering 211 metres from the wing.
His standout performance came in the third match, where he recorded 258 metres and scored the opening try.
However, it is worth noting that this was To'o's only try of the series.
Another potential contender for the medal was his Penrith teammate, Liam Martin.
Martin made a significant impact off the bench in the first two games and was instrumental in the Blues' attack, even scoring a try in the thrilling Game I loss.
Fittler recognized his value and decided to start him in Game III, where he played the full 80 minutes and contributed to the team's victory.
Looking ahead, the lack of candidates for the Brad Fittler medal raises concerns for the Blues.
They need to address the issues that hindered their performance in the 2023 defeat and find other players who can step up and make a significant impact on the field.