The last few rounds of the NRL season have delivered plenty of surprises. Heavyweights like the Melbourne Storm are on an unprecedented losing streak, while teams like the Wests Tigers are emerging as genuine contenders on the back of a strong winning run. Meanwhile, the Penrith Panthers continue to set the benchmark at the top of the ladder with yet another dominant start to the year. With momentum, injuries, and confidence all playing a role, here are our tips and predictions for all eight matches this weekend.
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs v North Queensland Cowboys
The Bulldogs have shown flashes of brilliance this season, including a statement win over Penrith earlier in the year. However, consistency remains a massive issue. The Cowboys, on the other hand, are quietly building momentum with strong defensive performances and dominant wins like their shutout victory over the Dragons earlier this season.
Prediction: I’m taking the Cowboys by 10 points.
This is one of the toughest games to read. The Dolphins have been competitive, but the Storm are in unfamiliar territory, battling a losing streak and structural issues. Despite their struggles, Melbourne’s spine still has elite talent capable of turning things around quickly.
Prediction: Storm by 4 points.
Gold Coast Titans v Canberra Raiders
The Titans remain one of the most unpredictable teams in the competition; capable of big wins but equally vulnerable defensively. The Raiders bring physicality and structure, though injuries (including key forwards) have impacted their recent performances.
Prediction: Raiders win by 12 points.
Parramatta Eels v New Zealand Warriors
Parramatta’s season has been wildly inconsistent, with heavy losses mixed in with impressive wins. While they’ll put up a fight, I expect the Warriors to flex their muscles here.
Prediction: Warriors win by 18 points.
Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos
A blockbuster clash. The Broncos entered the season as defending premiers and remain one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the competition . The Roosters boast a stacked lineup and have been building nicely, they could be in for another monumental win against a depleted Broncos attack.
Prediction: Roosters by 24 points.
Newcastle Knights v South Sydney Rabbitohs
The Knights have been competitive but inconsistent, while South Sydney are beginning to click with key positional changes and attacking weapons finding form. This matchup will likely come down to forward dominance and discipline.
Prediction: Rabbitohs win by 10 points.
Cronulla Sharks v Wests Tigers
The Sharks remain one of the most structured teams in the NRL, but the Tigers are the story of the season, surging up the ladder with a string of impressive wins. Confidence is a powerful factor, and right now the Tigers have plenty of it.
Prediction: Tigers win by 8 points.
Penrith Panthers v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
The Panthers have been dominant to start 2026, sitting atop the ladder with elite attacking and defensive numbers. Manly have shown attacking spark, putting 50+ points on the Dolphins earlier in the season, but consistency remains an issue and they are yet to be challenged under the Foxball system.
Prediction: Panthers by 16 points.
Final Thoughts
This round shapes as a defining one, with several contenders looking to solidify their credentials and others fighting to even stay relevant. The Panthers continue to lead the way, while the Tigers’ resurgence and the Storm’s struggles add intrigue to every matchup. As always in the NRL, expect the unexpected, it’s a funny game. But whatever happens, make sure you’re fully kitted out in the latest officially licensed NRL supporter gear from Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy!
