The season is winding down, but practically every team still has something to play for.
Whether that's securing a minor premiership, making the top eight, or avoiding the wooden spoon, there are plenty of engaging narratives as we approach the finals.
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 22. All odds via TAB.
Wests Tigers vs. North Queensland Cowboys prediction, tip, best bet
Thursday night footy returns! It may not be a blockbuster but is a game to look forward to nevertheless.
The Tigers are fighting to dodge the wooden spoon and should have a strong crowd supporting them at Leichhardt Oval.
If there's a position to keep an eye on in this match, it's five-eighth. Wests' Lachlan Galvin is an exciting young talent, while the Cowboys' Tom Dearden is developing into one of the game's best No. 6s.
In a battle of the playmakers, it's not hard to lean towards the Cowboys.
They have all the tools to cement their spot in the top eight and continue their positive form.
Prediction: Cowboys by 14
Best bet: Tom Dearden to score a try/Cowboys to win ($3.25)
Dolphins vs. Sydney Roosters prediction, tip, best bet
These two teams head to Perth for what should be a very entertaining clash.
The Roosters are on track for a top-four finish but the Dolphins' spot in the top eight is anything but certain.
Joseph Manu's return is huge for the Tricolours, who were getting low on outside backs.
The match could be won, however, in the forwards. On paper, the Roosters' pack is formidable and could be the difference against some of the older Dolphins forwards.
Expect plenty of points in this one.
Prediction: Roosters by 10
Best bet: Roosters to win/Over 50.5 points ($2.50)
Gold Coast Titans vs. Brisbane Broncos prediction, tip, best bet
Remarkably, last year's grand finalists the Broncos find themselves level on points with fellow Queenslanders the Titans.
It's going to take a big effort – and potentially some other results to go their way – for them to play finals footy in 2024, and it starts with a win on Saturday.
AJ Brimson is a chance to return in what would be a boost for a Titans side that has won four of their last five matches.
The Broncos have the players to beat their local rivals, but their form is seriously concerning. They can do it, but it may not be pretty.
Prediction: Broncos by 2
Best bet: Broncos 1-12 ($3.30)
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs. Canberra Raiders prediction, tip, best bet
The Belmore factor will be huge in this game.
The Bulldogs have already been playing some great footy this year, and they return to their spiritual home on Sunday, where they typically perform well.
In a further boost, they're welcoming Josh Addo-Carr and captain Stephen Crichton as they look to cement their spot in the top eight.
Their opponents Canberra may only be two points behind on the ladder, but have not reached Canterbury's level this season.
The team's point differentials – Bulldogs at +88 and Raiders at -71 – exemplify this.
In front of a raucous home crowd, Cameron Ciraldo's side will get up for this match.
Prediction: Bulldogs by 14
Best bet: Bulldogs -8.5 ($1.95)
