The 2026 NRL season continues to deliver surprises, with the competition ladder turned on its head after the opening rounds. Traditional powerhouses are under pressure, while the Wests Tigers have surged into contention early.
Recent form tells a compelling story. The Eels stunned the Dogs in Round 7, the Broncos were run out of Campbelltown with a cheeky 1 point win in their pocket, and the Raiders edged the Storm in a thriller, all signs that anything can happen right now.
With that in mind, let’s break down all eight clashes this weekend and give our best shot at tipping winners in every game.
Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders
The Tigers have been one of the breakout teams of 2026, combining attacking flair with resilience. Their dominant win over Newcastle highlighted their ability to pile on points quickly. The Raiders, meanwhile, are grinding out results but have struggled with consistency. However, with a win at home against Melbourne to boost their confidence, they may just have the edge they need to tame the Tigers.
Tip: Raiders by 4 points.
North Queensland Cowboys v Cronulla Sharks
The Cowboys are building nicely. But coming off a strong win over Brisbane, they put on one of their worst performances in recent memory against the Sea Eagles. Cronulla, on the other hand, have been hit and miss and are still searching for rhythm after a mixed start to the season. Coming in fresh off the bye might be the prep they need to take on a Cowboys outfit that just completed at 43%.
Tip: Sharks by 18 points.
Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs
This shapes as one of the tighter contests of the round. The Broncos have been competitive but are struggling with a whole lot of injuries, while the Bulldogs have shown glimpses of being premiership heavyweights, as well as being outright spoon contenders. The Dog’s got a big kick up the bum last week, which should be what they need to go to Brisbane and put away an injury-ridden Broncos.
Tip: Bulldogs by 14 points.
St George Illawarra Dragons v Sydney Roosters
Off the back of sacking their coach on Monday, the Dragons are searching for their first win after starting 0-7 to kick off the year. Now, in response to massive demand from their fan base, the club is turning to it’s youth, including a debutant halfback this week. Unfortunately, it comes in a week where they’re taking on a red-hot Roosters side. I really like the new look Dragons' line-up, but they can expect a baptism by fire this week.
Tip: Roosters by 40 points.
New Zealand Warriors v Dolphins
The Warriors are one of the hottest teams in the competition right now, highlighted by their statement win over Melbourne. The Dolphins remain competitive but haven’t consistently matched the top sides. Being back in New Zealand should prove too hard for this Dolphins line-up.
Tip: Warriors by 14 points.
Melbourne Storm v South Sydney Rabbitohs
This is a fascinating clash. Melbourne are uncharacteristically under pressure in 2026, while the Rabbitohs sit comfortably in the top half of the top eight. South Sydney’s attacking weapons across the park give them a real edge here, and I think the Storm are staring down the barrell of another loss!
Tip: Rabbitohs by 10 points.
Newcastle Knights v Penrith Panthers
Penrith remains the benchmark of the competition, sitting atop the ladder and continuing to deliver consistent performances. The Knights have shown promise despite carrying key injuries, but were exposed defensively by the Chooks.
Tip: Panthers by 22 points.
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles v Parramatta Eels
Backing up against Manly in Manly is never easy, and Parramatta face a tough assignment here despite a remarkable win against the Bulldogs. Under their new Fozball system, Manly are one of the new form teams of the competitions. Parra’s injury crisis should get the better of them here.
Tip: Manly by 24 points.
Final Thoughts
Round by round, the 2026 NRL season is proving that reputation counts for little; form, fitness, and confidence are everything. With emerging contenders shaking up the ladder and traditional giants under pressure, every game feels unpredictable.
If this weekend is anything like the last few rounds, fans are in for another thrilling chapter of rugby league action. Make sure you’re kitted out to the nine’s with all the latest officially licensed NRL club gear and more, from Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy
