Brisbane.
A very strong team with the best coach in the business. With current national representatives (Shaun Berrigan, Karmichael Hunt, Tame Tupou) having to duel for their preferred positions, you know something's going right.
Irritating, but still right.
Warriors.
A solid season last year, and agood team this time around. They were denied entry into the 8 only because of salary cap rorts that weren't effecting the team's current composition. After a good Tri-Nations performance and Grannygate, the Warriors will have some extra, unecessary motivation.
Storm.
Good team, excellent coach, and didn't loose many established players. Will be looking to capitalise on last year's success and should be able to do so.
Bulldogs.
Prennial finalists. Although I don't like them much personally, it's hard to deny they know what they're doing.
Titans
Probably a big call, but things look pretty good so far. Although their forward depth is often criticised, they managed to put the smackdown on the Panthers without their name forward signings, so something there is working. Add a backline with the likes of Walker, Rogers, Prince, and Campbell... pretty positive all round, I'd say.
They should make the Eight, I believe. The last three slots will probably be divided amongst the Panthers, Dragons, Knights, Tigers*, Sea Eagles, and Raiders. At this stage, only those five clubs appear to be ahead of the pack, but that last is a list of proven performers.
I've heard that the Cowboys are having more problems with stuff external to their footy, and given what happened last year, this is probably a signal they're in for another rough year. THey may make the eight, but they'll be pushing it if they do.
The Rabbitohs will collect the spoon. This is the 100th year of League, so it's all about traditions
*Like everyone else, that one comes with the Marshall proviso. Without Prince, their only other go-to man is whatsisname, the Fullback. And since the Tigers don't play like the Knights, one man can't carry the entire team.
