NRL predictions & tips - round 16 2025 complete analysis

NRL Predictions & Tips - Round 16 2025

Jun 17, 2025

Round 16 of the NRL promises fireworks as teams return from byes, Origin disruptions, and shocking form swings to fight for momentum in the back half of the season. From the surging Dolphins to a potentially crumbling Cowboys outfit, and with finals footy just over the horizon, every match now carries weight. Whether it’s the Warriors looking to back up a demolition job or the Tigers desperately searching for direction, there’s drama and intrigue in every clash. Let’s dive into this week’s tips and predictions, brought to you by Jerseys Megastore – for all things footy.

Wests Tigers v Canberra Raiders:
Both sides come into this game fresh off the bye. How will the Raiders bounce back after their first rest of 2025. The hardest part of the competition is over for them, with a relatively cruisy run home opposition wise and another two byes to come. The Tigers are struggling to find their feet at the minute, managing to sit in just 13th position even after having two byes. I’d imagine this will be a bit of a one way contest. I’m tipping the Raiders by 18 points

New Zealand Warriors v Penrith Panthers:
None of the Penrith State of Origin players are expected to back up this week in New Zealand after playing in Perth on Wednesday. The Warriors will come in fresh after putting 40 on the 5th placed Sharks two weeks ago. The Luke Metcalf and Harris-Tevita combination seems to be cooking in Auckland. Another demolition job could be on the cards. I’m tipping the Warriors by 24 points

Dolphins v Newcastle Knights:
Try and stop them! The Dolphins have been on a try scoring rampage in their last three games, outscoring their opponents 158 to 14, and that’s without some key fire power too. The Knights have looked better in the last two weeks, running down a Manly half time lead and only losing to a contentious call against the Roosters. Defence has been the one highlight to Newcastle’s season thus far, and while I don’t think they’ll win, the may be able to stem the bleeding a tad. I’m tipping the Dolphins by 30 points

South Sydney Rabbitohs v Melbourne Storm:
Souths benefited greatly from the break in play against the Dogs due to the storm on Sunday afternoon. They used the stoppages well to help get themselves back into the game, after being down 18 nil early, despite still ultimately still succumbing to Canterbury. The Storm will be looking to really get into a groove now the back end of the season is approaching and they look to push for another grand final birth. Expecting to welcome back the Origin stars, I’m tipping Melbourne to win by 16 points

Brisbane Broncos v Cronulla Sharks:
The Broncos managed to get back to winning ways when they played the last placed Titans two weeks ago heading into the bye. This week they come up against the Sharks who will be looking to bounce back sharply after going down to a fiery Warriors outfit before their respective bye. Sunday afternoon football is an almost foreign concept to the Friday night specialists, and that could play a massive factor in this game. Who used their week off more successfully will also play a crucial role. I’m tipping the Sharks by 12 points. 

Sydney Roosters v North Queensland Cowboys:
The Roosters managed to dodge a major bullet last week after narrowly getting by the Knights in an otherwise lackluster performance. Most sides would have put 30 on Easts by half time the way they were playing. But nevertheless, they got the win. A testament to their resilience. The Cowboys on the other hand were absolutely humiliated in front of their home fans, as they went down by 54 points to the Phins. On form, this is anyone’s game here. But as the Chooks welcome back their Origin stars, I’d be tipping the Roosters by 8 points

Parramatta Eels v Gold Coast Titans:
An absolute must see to close out the round. Are we looking at the Spoon Bowl come early? Mitchell Moses is out for the next six weeks and the Titans are looking to get off the bottom of the ladder FAST! A solid win against Manly last week suggests things may be starting to click for the mad scientist on the Gold Coast. I’m going to be tipping the Titans by 14 points

As the business end of the season approaches, Round 16 shapes as a defining week for several clubs; some clinging to finals hopes, others simply fighting for pride. With key players missing, returning, or backing up from Origin, expect surprises, blowouts, and a few tight tussles that could shake up the ladder. No matter where your allegiance lies, make sure you’re kitted out in your team’s colours with all the latest officially licensed gear from Jerseys Megastore… for all things footy!

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