The real top three contenders in my view, are Saints, Manly and the Broncs.
Saints, because of the team and its spirit and the simple fact that Bennett is coaching them. You simply cannot play all year, the way they have played, winning the games they have won, with a brilliant for and against, not to be considered as one of the three top contenders.
Manly, well, on their day, they can beat anyone. I realise the same can be said for other teams, but Manly is in a different catergory, being able to "have" their day far more often. As a Saints supporter, Manly is a major worry come finals time.
The Broncs can and do change their game, come finals time, and like Manly will be a major concern. Regardless who wins this Sunday between Saints and the Broncs, it will be a completely different match, if they meet again in the finals. The Brisbane side just seems to be able to lift in September. Us poor Saints fans, on the other hand, may have to wait until late in August, or even the semi's to see what Wayne Bennett will pull out of the hat.
As for the others, well the Roosters, Rabbitsand even the Eels will have their opportunities.
GO