The NRL continues this week for Round 26 action, kicking off with the Bulldogs vs. Panthers blockbuster game on Thursday night.
We have NRL betting tips for every game in 2025, including this week’s featured games between the Warriors vs. Eels, Storm vs. Roosters, and Cowboys vs. Broncos.
NRL Round 26 Tips
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Thursday 28/8/25
The Panthers were looking good for a top four spot, but after blowing consecutive second-half leads, they are just battling for a top eight spot.
They now face the Bulldogs as $1.57 favourites, and we believe the bookmakers have the odds around the wrong way. Despite losing 20-14 to the Storm last week, it was a solid effort, and the Bulldogs could bounce back.
Take them to cover the +4.5, in what is a pivotal game.
Bulldogs by 4
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Friday 29/8/25
The Warriors are gripping onto a top four spot after beating the Titans last week, and although their attack looks average at best, their defence is keeping them in the hunt.
They now face a dangerous Eels team, who comes off a massive win over the Roosters, and they’re playing with the freedom of having no pressure. However, given what’s on the line, we’re backing the Warriors to win at home.
They play well in Auckland, so we’re backing their defence to get it done.
Warriors by 8
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The Storm didn’t cover the –7.5 spread against the Bulldogs last week, but we’re happy to stick with them at the same line against the Roosters.
After losing heavily to the Eels last week, the Roosters now find themselves in hot water. They are in the eighth spot on the NRL ladder, but the Storm let up for no team, so the home side should win and cover the spread.
They want a top two finish, so the Storm is the best bet.
Storm by 10
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Saturday 30/8/25
The Raiders proved last week that they’re the best team in the competition when coming from behind to down the Panthers in golden point. It was a wild victory, and it should only increase their confidence levels.
Conversely, the Wests Tigers regressed to their usual standard of play when allowing the Cowboys to come from 12 points behind with only 15 minutes remaining. They can’t put 80 minutes together, so the Raiders should capitalise.
We expect a sizable win from the favourites on Saturday afternoon.
Raiders by 18
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It was good to see the Sea Eagles get back to their best last week, in a year that could have been. It was marred by untimely losses and injuries, but they could close it out with a few wins.
They are playing better rugby league than the Dragons, and we expect to see more money come for them after opening at $1.88.
Include the Sea Eagles in your NRL Round 26 picks.
Sea Eagles by 6
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The Broncos were impressive last week when pumping the Newcastle Knights, and we’re surprised by the –6.5 line available with NRL odds.
The Cowboys might be coming off a good win over the Tigers, but they’re not in finals contention, and the Broncos are pushing for a top four spot.
It could be a one-sided win for Brisbane against their little brother.
Broncos by 12
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Sunday 31/8/25
The Knights have nothing going for them, and with the Sharks looking ready to go, it could be a one-sided game on Sunday afternoon.
Cronulla plays some of its best league in the afternoon, and with the Knights leaking points like there’s no tomorrow, it could allow the Sharks to test their backline moves before the finals start in two weeks’ time.
Covering a –16.5 spread isn’t easy, but it’s made easier when you play the Knights.
Sharks by 24
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We’re not sure what’s going wrong with the Dolphins, who have needed wins to keep their playoff chances alive. However, despite poor form, they have enough firepower to beat the Titans with ease.
The Titans were easily handled by the Warriors last week, and their right-edge defence isn’t good enough for the NRL.
Given how explosive the Dolphins can be, they should win comfortably.
Dolphins by 14
