exceL vs Origen

Next up, we have a fairly exciting clash between Origen and Excel Esports. This isn't exactly a fight between two LEC titans, but it's not a huge mismatch either. Both line-ups have ample talent and potential, but only one of them was able to reach Top 6 and, therefore, lock down a spot in the playoffs.

The Excel bunch was definitely close, but they simply dropped too many games throughout the season and therefore failed by the slimmest of margins. To their credit, they were fairly competitive almost every single time, but it just wasn't enough at this level of play. Still, there's more than enough reason for optimism going forward. They can certainly work on their issues and become a lot more consistent and dangerous over the course of the off-season. Once the Summer Split comes along, they'll definitely be a lot stronger, especially with a veteran head coach leading the charge.

Origen is obviously favored and with good reason. They've looked rather amazing throughout the split in no small part because of their stellar macro, commanding team play and spectacular team fighting. Their drafting also deserves a mention as they always had a perfect read on the meta and, therefore, knew how to best harness its potential. But despite their success, they could never compete with the like of G2 Esports or Fnatic. Sometimes they kept things close, before succumbing to the two teams that are obviously more talented and flexible. Other times, however, they were blown out of the water from the moment they stepped foot on the Rift.

When they couldn't impose their own playstyle, they were easy pickings for both "Kings of Europe" and that's quite a worrying trend if you're an Origen fan and you're hoping they can leave a mark in the playoffs. But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Before the playoffs come around (which is next week, to be more exact), they have to face Excel Esports and MAD Lions. Both challengers are dexterous and, at times, deceptively strong, but neither should be able to challenge a game Origen that's dead-set on securing second place in the standings.

If they win against both (and Fnatic does the same this week), they'll be able to force a tiebreaker with the boys in black and orange. Getting second place is incredibly important as it'll prove them with a strategic edge over their playoff opponents, regardless of whom they have to eventually face.

Because of this, it's fair assume they've prepared well for this week and will put their best foot forward. Still, both Excel and MAD can present a challenge, so don't except any one-sided shellacking.

We're going with Origen on this one, but Excel -- as inherently flawed as they are -- often play to the level of their opponents. Furthermore, Mickey and Patrick should never be underestimated so expect a fairly competitive game from start to finish.