NRL Round 1 Predictions
Knights vs Cowboys
Best Bet: Cowboys –4.5 @ 1.90
North Queensland enter Round 1 with a settled spine and plenty of attacking upside. Their combinations through the middle and on the edges should allow them to generate repeat pressure early. Newcastle welcome new faces, but cohesion can take time, particularly in high-profile openers. If the Cowboys win the ruck battle, their outside backs have the class to extend the margin beyond a single converted try.
Prediction: Cowboys by 6
Bulldogs vs Dragons
Best Bet: Dragons +6.5 @ 1.90
Canterbury may have the stronger overall squad on paper, but this matchup projects as far tighter than the line suggests. St George Illawarra possess enough strike out wide to remain competitive throughout, and early-season contests often come down to intensity and effort rather than polish. Expect the Dragons to stay within range in what should be a close contest.
Prediction: Bulldogs by 4
Storm vs Eels
Best Bet: Eels +7.5 @ 1.90
Melbourne’s Round 1 pedigree is well documented, but Parramatta traditionally lift when facing the Storm. With disruption across Melbourne’s lineup during the offseason, this shapes as a tighter encounter than usual. The Eels’ forward platform and structured attack should keep them within striking distance across 80 minutes.
Prediction: Storm by 6
Warriors vs Roosters
Best Bet: Roosters –4.5 @ 1.90
Sydney Roosters boast one of the more balanced squads entering 2026 and carry genuine premiership expectations. While travelling to Auckland is never straightforward, their experience in big fixtures should prove decisive. If they control possession and tempo, they can create enough separation to cover the spread.
Prediction: Roosters by 10
Broncos vs Panthers
Best Bet: Panthers +6.5 @ 1.90
Brisbane hold home-ground advantage, but Penrith’s system remains strong regardless of personnel changes. Even without their chief playmaker, the Panthers’ defensive structure and discipline keep them competitive in most contests. Expect them to grind their way into the match and remain within a converted try.
Prediction: Panthers by 2
Sharks vs Titans
Best Bet: Sharks –9.5 @ 1.90
Cronulla appear well positioned to open the season strongly against a Titans side still searching for consistency. With a dynamic attack and reliable defensive systems, the Sharks should be able to apply scoreboard pressure early and sustain it. If momentum builds, this margin could extend quickly.
Prediction: Sharks by 16
Sea Eagles vs Raiders
Best Bet: Raiders H2H @ 1.87
Canberra often start seasons sharply and bring physicality from the opening whistle. With key changes impacting Manly’s structure, the Raiders’ continuity and direct style may prove influential. In what projects as a tough, grinding encounter, Canberra look capable of securing the outright result.
Prediction: Raiders by 8
Dolphins vs Rabbitohs
Best Bet: Dolphins –1.5 @ 1.90
Gold Coast’s attacking confidence carried over from last season gives them early momentum. South Sydney have quality across the park but may require time to fully click. In what shapes as one of the round’s tighter matchups, the Dolphins’ edge speed and ball movement could be enough to secure a narrow victory.
Prediction: Dolphins by 6
