For the first time in a little while, we have a full round of NRL to look forward to.
This weekend has a bit of everything, including some battles for the top-eight, and a David vs. Goliath style 1st vs. 17th clash.
With just two points covering the teams sitting between 5th and 12th, every win from now until the end of the season will be crucial.
MORE: 2024 NRL live ladder | Every NRL club's updated injury list | Every NRL fixture and result for each club
Below are The Sporting News’ betting predictions and best bets for Round 18. All odds via TAB.
Parramatta Eels vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs prediction, tip, best bet
After a torrid start to the season, the Rabbitohs have turned things around.
There is still a long way to go to secure a stunning top-eight berth, although a fifth consecutive win this round would be an important step.
The Eels – who find themselves second from the bottom on the ladder – have home-ground advantage, but face an uphill battle against an improving Bunnies side.
If halfback Mitchell Moses can perform even half as well as he did in State of Origin Game 2, Parramatta have a chance.
Momentum is crucial at this stage of the season though, so expect Souths to get the job done here as they welcome Cameron Murray and Latrell Mitchell back to the fold.
Prediction: Rabbitohs by 6
Best bet: Rabbitohs 1-12 ($3.30)
Brisbane Broncos vs. Penrith Panthers prediction, tip, best bet
On Friday, the Broncos will be looking to return to the top eight but need to get past the reigning champions the Panthers.
Injuries have undoubtedly played their role, but Brisbane have struggled with consistency this season and will need to fight to play finals footy.
Both sides are welcoming back their Origin stars, so this should be a high-quality clash.
While the Broncos will be boosted by their home fans, Penrith are likely to bounce back from last week's underwhelming showing.
Prediction: Panthers by 10
Best bet: Panthers -4.5 ($1.90)
Wests Tigers vs. Melbourne Storm prediction, tip, best bet
1st vs. 17th. David vs. Goliath.
The Storm come into this match as strong favourites, although it could be closer than the ladder suggests.
Melbourne had to scrap their way to a messy win against the Raiders last week and now will be without Xavier Coates through injury, with Harry Grant also remaining absent.
Overall, the Tigers have been disappointing this season, but on occasion, they have flicked a switch and piled on the tries.
The Leichhardt factor isn't to be underestimated, although it's hard to envisage a scenario where the Storm lose this one.
Prediction: Storm by 8
Best bet: Storm 1-12 ($3.30)
Sydney Roosters vs. St George Illawarra Dragons prediction, tip, best bet
The Dragons have been quiet improvers this season, sitting in 8th with a winning record (8-7).
Defence will have to be the priority this weekend when they play the Roosters – the Tricolours have scored the most points (480) of any team this season, and have a habit of blowing sides away.
While St George have been solid as a collective this campaign, their negative points differential suggests it may be tough this week.
Expect plenty of points on both sides in this match, with the Roosters cementing their spot in the top four.
Prediction: Roosters by 12
Best bet: Roosters to win/Over 52.5 points ($2.30)
