There will be a sense Penrith are ripe for the taking without Dylan Edwards in the grand-final rematch against Melbourne. The Storm have a chance to make an early-season statement.
WHO ARE THE REAL SEA EAGLES AND BRONCOS?
Genuine contenders one week, disappointments the next. The Broncos and Sea Eagles started the season as two of the NRL's hottest teams, but if either lose to North Queensland or Canberra, round one will seem an age ago after 1-2 starts.
TODD PAYTEN NEEDS A WIN
The NRL is only two rounds old, but already critics are claiming Todd Payten can't afford more defensive horror shows. Jason Taumalolo should return against the Broncos, but the Cowboys need more than just their old warhorse.
IS JAMIE HUMPHREYS THE ANSWER AT SOUTH SYDNEY?
Jamie Humphreys was the cheapest half on the Rabbitohs' top-30 roster when signed by South Sydney for 2025. He now has rights to the No.7 jersey after a 2-0 start at the Rabbitohs. Saturday's clash with Cronulla looms as his biggest test yet.
GOLD COAST NEED DAVID FIFITA OFF THE BENCH
David Fifita is Gold Coast's most destructive forward, but he spent the first 50 minutes of Sunday's loss to Canterbury on the bench as the Titans fell behind 34-12. Fitness after ankle surgery was a concern, but Des Hasler must give him more time to make an impact against Newcastle.
CAN THE FOXX BITE THE BULLDOGS?
It will take more than Josh Addo-Carr to turn around Parramatta's horror start to the season. But the flyer will look forward to proving a point against his old club in his return from the drug-driving ban, after the Bulldogs sacked him at the end of last year.
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