The boys have been very physical at breakdown, done the simple things well, and executed with precision and speed. They'll do that again this weekend and win comfortably, but success for me against Canada will be in whether they can limit the number of unforced errors - something that comes with combinations played regularly and grown in exposure, trust and timing.
If they can eradicate these unforced errors, then through the games that follow pressure builds for the opposition, and confidence grows within the team. Look at how Novak Djokovic plays tennis. He just doesn't seem to make mistakes - it is relentless, zero-error and, when it is sustained it becomes psychologically punishing for his opponents.
This All Black team increasingly seem to be comfortable in putting pressure on each other to deliver at this level and in expecting excellence from themselves and those around them. It is clear trust is building - take a look at the defensive systems, anticipation, running lines and commitment - so now it is time to step it up and do it all error-free.
But that is harder when you keep tweaking.
What is clear is that this All Black side doesn't lack motivation, focus or determination. More importantly however, it does seem that players and management have learnt from 2007. In a Rugby World Cup, as the group stages close and the business end begins, there is only the next game. You win it, and you win it well. You put the best team out there, ensure complete focus on the 80-minute performance, and execute the game strategy as perfectly as you can.
Of the other teams that seem likely to progress into the quarters, it looks as if the Ireland-Australia result has blown the tournament wide open. Perhaps up to six teams will still consider themselves in with a realistic shot of grabbing the trophy - and that makes for a fantastic few weeks ahead. If I had to look to one team - aside from the All Blacks - that might cause real problems for anyone it would be South Africa.
On their day they can beat up pretty much any team in the world - but I am going to leave it there for now. Like the team, I'm just going to keep it focused on the next match.
We need to look at how we can level the playing field so that at least there is more equal preparation time. The Tier 2 Nations are developing some real bite and some of the rugby has been outstanding; they have pushed the established nations into playing better. It is a real pleasure to see them having a proper go.
Samoa, Japan and Georgia show that with IRB support, some smart investment, and good coaching structures, countries can come on.
That support needs to continue into the RWC itself. It is a big ask - and unfair - to expect a small team to play a bigger nation with three days less to recuperate and prepare.
No such issues for the All Blacks though.
Steely-eyed after seeing off the French last week, McCaw didn't look like a man who was relieved to put a ghost to rest, or happy to right the wrong of 2007 or any of that old guff. He looked a man with significant unfinished business.
While that unfinished business remains just that until sometime in October, it starts with the Canadians.
