Rovers’ former midfielder played for seven years at Ewood Park, but in that time he never had the thrill of playing in a derby game against the Clarets.
He told BBC Radio Lancashire: "I think Blackburn will nick it. Sam will get them right up for it.
"I just think they are that bit stronger physically."
"Owen Coyle likes to set his team out to play nice pretty football and they can certainly do that especially at Turf Moor.
"I just think Sam, along with David Dunn will be firing the boys up in the dressing room. I think they might bully Burnley at the weekend but it'll only be by the odd goal."