The Reds have beaten the Brumbies in two tight comeback wins this season, turning the tables on the long-time powerhouses of Australian rugby who pipped them in last year's Canberra final.

But the true test will come in front of more than 40,000 fans at Suncorp Stadium, where the Reds will again be buoyed by Taniela Tupou's scrum power and matured No.10 James O'Connor.

Alaalatoa left Suncorp Stadium frustrated at their inability to stop what they knew was coming in their last encounter but says they've adjusted for what he and rival captain O'Connor are both describing as one of the biggest games of their careers.

"There's a few ways we've spoken about and the Force last week, they scrum similar so it was a good hit out," the prop said.

"We know it's a strength of theirs and an area we both pride ourselves on - as well as the maul and line-out - but they've set the benchmark in the scrum."

O'Connor, who has been happy to take the three points and accumulate on the back of their scrum penalties in a 7-1 season, expects a response from the Brumbies.

"For sure when you're versing someone like Nella (Tupou) and Feao (Fotuaika) and BPA (hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa) you're going to need a few tricks because they're powerful men," he said.

"We'll see what they come with ... it'll be a mighty battle but I have a lot of confidence in my men."

The Reds' branding has claimed it is "their time" all season, their confidence drawing a reaction from Brumbies coach Dan McKellar earlier this week when he loaded the pressure on the hosts.

"I try and disregard everything that's been said but when you've got a home final, played some great footy and beaten us twice, you automatically have that vibe," Alaalatoa said.

Recalled as captain with Liam Wright benched, O'Connor insisted theirs was a healthy rivalry that had helped bring the code back from the brink after last season's COVID-19 shutdown.

"There's always mind games in footy; we respect them, know they're great outfit but in a final it's whoever wants it more, history doesn't matter," he said.

"Everyone talks about it being another game but it's not, it's a final and my mindset is that its the last game of the year, do or die.

"Forty thousand at Suncorp, it's unreal ... Australian rugby feels good, there's a buzz around Brisbane and I don't think I could have seen it developing in this way after a tough time."

Australian Associated Press