NRL Round 24 Expert Tips

Photo: Getty Images

Round 24 of the NRL season is here, with some tasty games that will have huge consequences on the final standings.

There are several huge matchups this weekend, including a potential grand final preview between the Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters, with the minor premier spot up for grabs still.

Panthers vs Roosters
Tip: Panthers 1-12

The round kicks off with the biggest game of the weekend as the Panthers host the Roosters.

This has all the makings of a finals-quality contest, with both sides among the strongest teams in the competition and the minor premiership race still alive.

Penrith have shown throughout the season that they are extremely difficult to beat when their forwards establish control, while Nathan Cleary remains the ultimate difference-maker in tight games despite last weeks loss to the Warriors.

The Roosters, meanwhile, have plenty of attacking firepower and are expected to welcome captain James Tedesco back into the side as they continue their push towards the top of the ladder.

I expect this one to go down to the wire, but the Panthers' experience in these big games gives them the edge.

Sea Eagles vs Dolphins
Tip: Dolphins 1-12

The Dolphins travel to Manly in what could be a huge game for their finals aspirations.

The Dolphins have been one of the stories of the 2026 season and remain firmly in the race for September football and are targeting a top 4 finish.

Manly have plenty of attacking talent and home-ground advantage, but the Dolphins have shown enough consistency this season to give me confidence in them here.

No Tom Trbojevic and a weakened bench will harm the Sea Eagles chances, along with their run of 5 losses.

The Dolphins should have enough attacking quality to get the job done, although we don't expect a comfortable victory.

Bulldogs 1-12 vs Rabbitohs
Tip: Bulldogs 1-12

The Bulldogs welcome South Sydney in another important finals battle, in what feels like a '4-pointer' type match.

Both sides have a strong lineup, with both forward packs looking great for this one.

South Sydney have improved as the season has progressed and are still firmly in the finals conversation, making this a dangerous game for the Bulldogs.

The Rabbitohs have plenty of strike power, but after almost bottling a 28-point lead last week I am backing Canterbury's defensive discipline and ability to control the middle of the field.

Expect a tight contest, but the Bulldogs should eventually find a way through.

Sharks 1-12 vs Raiders
Tip: Sharks 1-12

Cronulla face Canberra in a game that is key for the Sharks after their shock loss to the Dragons.

The Sharks will be without Addin Fonua-Blake after he was suspended for one match following Round 23, which makes this a more difficult assignment than it might initially appear.

Despite that setback, Cronulla remain one of the most dangerous sides in the competition and have enough quality across the park to overcome the Raiders.

Canberra's season has taken a major hit and their finals hopes are effectively over following their Round 23 defeat to Newcastle.

The Sharks should control the game through their middle and claim an important victory.

Eels 1-12 vs Cowboys
Tip: Eels 1-12

Parramatta take on North Queensland in a game where both sides will desperately want a win.

The Eels have endured a difficult season and have suffered another major blow with fullback Isaiah Iongi ruled out for the remainder of the year with knee injuries.

However, Parramatta still have enough quality to cause problems for the Cowboys at home, and with the inconsistency of the Cowboys.

North Queensland have struggled for consistency and have found themselves on the wrong side of several close games throughout the season.

With home advantage and plenty to prove, I am backing the Eels to finally put together a complete performance and snag a close one.

Broncos vs Warriors
Tip: Warriors 1-12

The Warriors head to Suncorp Stadium to face a Brisbane side that has struggled for consistency, and are fresh of losing the QLD derby despite being up by 24 points.

New Zealand have been competitive throughout the season and their ability to defend through the middle gives them a strong chance against the Broncos, and are off the back of a top class win over the Panthers.

Brisbane have plenty of attacking talent, but their inconsistency has made them difficult to trust.

The Warriors have enough firepower to win this one, but I expect a close contest.

Knights 13+ vs Titans
Tip: Knights 13+

This is my biggest margin tip of the weekend.

Newcastle have been one of the surprise packages of 2026 and have officially secured their place in the finals after their Round 23 victory over Canberra.

The Knights now have the opportunity to build momentum heading into September.

The Titans, meanwhile, have endured another difficult season and have struggled to consistently compete with the competition's stronger sides despite playing much better footy in recent weeks.

Newcastle should dominate possession, control the middle and create plenty of opportunities for their outside backs.

I am expecting the Knights to win comfortably and could really pile on the points at home.

Tigers vs Dragons
Tip: Dragons 1-12

The final game of the round sees the Wests Tigers take on the St George Illawarra Dragons, or trash taking on garbage....

The Tigers have shown flashes of improvement early this season but remain inconsistent, particularly against teams competing for the finals and have looked awful in recent weeks.

The Dragons have plenty riding on this game and should be desperate to secure another two points so secure their first consecutive wins in 12 months.

With Toby Couchman expected to return for the Dragons, they should receive a boost through the middle of the field.

This could be another tight contest, but I am backing the Dragons to have enough fight and momentum after their Sharks upset to get over the line.