With State of Origin wrapped up for 2025, the focus returns to the NRL.
Just nine rounds of footy remain as clubs jostle for finals spots.
Which teams will fade away, and who will get hot?
The Sporting News delivers its predictions and best bets for select Round 19 matches in the NRL — all odds per bookmaker Sportsbet.
MORE: NRL injury list | NRL draw, fixtures | NRL ladder, standings
Sharks vs. Dolphins prediction, tip, best bet
Despite being scheduled just two days after the Origin decider, both teams should be firing for this one.
Dolphins star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow is the only player from either squad to feature on Wednesday, and he is set to back up on Friday.
Both sides are well matched, although the visitors will miss Kodi Nikorima in the halves, who is out through injury.
The back line battle should be an engaging one, with plenty of strike players on deck.
In dry conditions at Shark Park, the points should be flowing, with the in-form Isaiya Katoa steering the Dolphins to a narrow win.
Prediction: Dolphins by 4
Best bet: Herbie Farnworth/Sione Katoa/Jamayne Isaako to combine for 3+ tries ($3.00)
Knights vs. Storm prediction, tip, best bet
The bulk of Melbourne's Origin stars have been named on the extended bench, so there is no guarantee they will line up on Saturday.
They got the job done with an understrength squad last week in North Queensland, which will give them confidence for this clash.
The Knights are a quietly dangerous proposition, though.
Newcastle typically find form late in the season, and this could be the perfect match to kick off a finals charge.
With the dynamic Fletcher Sharpe back at fullback, this game might be closer than the odds suggest.
Prediction: Storm by 2
Best bet: Knights +11.5 ($1.96)
Titans vs. Broncos prediction, tip, best bet
The Broncos are on a top-four charge.
After an inconsistent start to the season, Michael Maguire has his side humming.
Defeating the Titans – who sit last on the ladder – should, theoretically, be a straightforward task.
However, reports emerged this week that Des Hasler will exit as coach by the end of the campaign.
While it may seem counterintuitive, NRL sides sometimes play with more freedom when a coach either leaves or announces their intention to leave.
Brisbane should still have them covered, but don't be surprised if it's a bit of a shootout on Sunday.
Prediction: Broncos by 6
Best bet: Over 49.5 points ($1.90)