There is no comparison between GOB and a young briers.

That young Briers was the vent of most peoples friustrations for years dispite holding the a poor team together. He only became world class in our eyes once he hit his mid 20's. O'Brien is 21/22 i think

O'Brien is also a very brave HB, he puts himself in that sacrificial situation to create a gap, hold's on to it, releases it and gets smashed.
He does lack something but i can't quite put my finger on it.

Respect yed. he wont earn it being sheepish.
GOB in name but not in his nature.

He needs to find his voice. The second I see him screaming at J. Monaghan and co like he wants them dead I'll know he has what it takes.

He has all the skills but for the world doesn't look a leader.