The Blues came from behind to win a thrilling contest last year 41-34, and the Queensland Rugby Union asked for a repeat on Anzac Day again this year.
The Reds are honouring the Anzac Day game by playing in a khaki jersey with First World War features, including black-over-blue hoops on the sleeves to recognise the colour patches the Queensland infantry battalions wore during the conflict. A rising sun badge on the collar is in recognition of those who served, while a poppy is in honour of the fallen, 11 of whom were former Queensland representatives.
One area of anticipation in the game is in the midfield, where the home town side has Wallabies second five-eighths Hunter Paisami and impressive 20-year-old centre partner Dre Pakeho looking to apply pressure on the Blues pairing of All Blacks centre Rieko Ioane and second five-eighths AJ Lam.
Paisami, a Blues' Under-18 squad member with Blues No8 Hoskins Sotutu, flanker Dalton Papali'i and wing Caleb Clarke before moving to Melbourne, knows what to expect.
"The Blues haven't had a great start to the season but we all know the quality they have in their group and in individuals. They can bounce back at any time."
Pakeho, who has New Zealand-born parents and who spent time in the Waikato in his early years, was the Reds' man of the match in his last appearance against the Brumbies, which saw him score the match-winning try.
He said the players would be carrying quite a bit when wearing the jersey.
"It means a lot to the boys and the country.
"I was in the stands watching the boys go at it in this game last year. It was a big event.
"It will be cool to go up against Beauden [Barrett] and Rieko Ioane having watched those guys on the screen growing up."
His partner Paisami said, "It was a high-scoring and entertaining game. We know what happened last year. We'll be pumped and ready for it."
Having worked with Pakeho since he was called into the squad last year, making his debut against Wales, Paisami has been impressed by his confidence.
"Up against big teams, he backs himself in attack and defence."
Pakeho has enjoyed working with Paisami.
"Hunter and I have trained together a lot. It was special to run out with him, and we have a good connection off the field.
"We have a lot of experienced boys at the Reds and I pick their brains every day."