The final round of the 2023 NRL season is here, some with sides still fighting for their spot in the top eight.
It's a tricky slate of games to judge: certain teams are playing for pride while multiple stars are sitting out as their clubs prepare for the finals.
Below are The Sporting News’ betting predictions and best bets for Round 27.
MORE: NRL team lists - Every side's confirmed lineup
Brisbane Broncos vs. Melbourne Storm prediction, tip, best bet
Both the Broncos and Storm are resting significant amounts of players for this clash, with their focus on preparing for the finals.
There are plenty of new faces set to be introduced at Suncorp Stadium, which makes it tricky to predict a result.
Brisbane have conceded 87 per cent of their tries this season on either edge (per Stats Insider), with rock-solid defence in the middle.
William Warbrick has been impressive in his debut season for Melbourne, and even though he is switching wings on Thursday, we're predicting him to take advantage of an inexperienced Broncos side and bag another try.
BEST BET: William Warbrick ATS ($2.20)
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Sydney Roosters prediction, tip, best bet
A spot in the finals will be up for grabs when the Rabbitohs and Roosters face off in arguably the match of the round.
The Bunnies were considered premiership contenders just a couple of months ago, but are now in danger of losing their top-eight spot amid on and off-field struggles.
As for the Tricolours, they are enjoying some positive momentum after a generally inconsistent season.
In terms of talent, both sides stack up pretty evenly. But games like these are often won with attitude.
We're tipping the Roosters to edge this one and record their fifth consecutive win.
BEST BET: Sydney Roosters to win ($2.00)
Penrith Panthers vs. North Queensland Cowboys prediction, tip, best bet
The Panthers have surprised many by naming a full-strength team for their clash with the Cowboys on Saturday.
While the minor premiership may not be the top of Penrith's priorities, getting back in the winners' circle after last week's lacklustre showing will be key heading into knockout footy.
As for the Cowboys, the pressure is on them to cause an upset and potentially squeeze into the top-eight.
This should be set up for a comprehensive Panthers win, despite North Queensland's scintillating display last round.
BEST BET: Penrith Panthers -10.5 ($1.90)
Cronulla Sharks vs. Canberra Raiders prediction, tip, best bet
Another match with finals implications for both sides, the Sharks will host the Raiders to round out the week of action.
The absences of Corey Horsburgh and Josh Papali'i are major blows to Canberra's forward pack and could be the difference against a mostly healthy Cronulla side.
The Sharks will also be boosted by the return of star halfback Nicho Hynes, who will be hoping to steer them to a win and consequently lock in a home final.
BEST BET: Cronulla Sharks -8.5 ($1.90)
