We have five NRL matches to look forward to this weekend in the lead up to the State of Origin decider.
Who will be able to cope without their representative stars?
The Sporting News delivers its predictions and best bets for select Round 18 matches in the NRL — all odds per bookmaker Sportsbet.
MORE: NRL injury list | NRL draw, fixtures | NRL ladder, standings
Bulldogs vs. Broncos prediction, tip, best bet
This is an interesting clash.
The Broncos are riding a three-game win streak, while the Bulldogs are coming off a narrow loss to the Panthers.
Stephen Crichton and Jacob Kiraz's absence from the backline will be a big loss for Canterbury, especially defensively.
Brisbane are quietly progressing, and this could be the week they announce themselves as top-four contenders.
Keep an eye on Selwyn Cobbo, too, who has been named at fullback after confirmation he will leave the club at the end of the season. He will want to make an impact ahead of his switch to the Dolphins.
Prediction: Broncos by 2
Best bet: Broncos 1-12 ($3.60)
Cowboys vs. Storm prediction, tip, best bet
Melbourne enter this clash as strong favourites despite missing five players through Origin and Sua Fa'alogo through injury.
Craig Bellamy has had to draft second-rower Joe Chan into the backline, while the inexperienced Kane Bradley is named on the wing.
They may be a well-drilled side, but the Storm could be a little clunky in Townsville.
The Cowboys have also been hit hard by Origin, with four of their stars absent.
However, they have won their last three home matches against the Storm, which suggests an upset could be brewing.
Prediction: Cowboys by 4
Best bet: Cowboys +10.5 ($1.91)
Roosters vs. Tigers prediction, tip, best bet
Despite missing six Origin players, the Roosters have all the tools required to get the win here.
The Tigers slumped to their sixth straight loss last week, and it's hard to see how they end that streak on Sunday.
Injuries and suspensions see Sunia Turuva named at fullback, while third-string hooker Tristan Hope steps into the No. 9 jersey.
There are just too many question marks here to back Benji Marshall's side.
Expect James Tedesco to lead by example as the Tricolours pile on the points at home.
Prediction: Roosters by 18
Best bet: Roosters -12.5 ($1.98)