I think for the last few years since the departure of Woody Ireland have lacked a leader to pull them through big tournaments and tough times. England had Martin Johnson and this type of leader is crucial to any team with big expectations.
Brian is an exceptional player and will go down in history as the sports best centre but he is far from the kind of leader that could lead Ireland to a World Cup final. I believe O'Driscoll would probably play even better if he did not have the responsibility of captaining the team and was let to get on with his own game.
If Ireland go out of this world cup on Sunday I think it is time for a shake up and a new captain, if so who are the contenders for the top spot?