Having a look at our draw again, we've got a fantastic start to the season that leads into a tough set of games. It couldn't be set up better.
1-5
Warriors (A), Dogs, Tigers, Raiders (H), Bye.
No reason not to be on 8 points after 5 rounds there. Expecting an improvement from the Tigers, and a tough game against the Warriors to start.
6-9
Souths, Cows (H), Raiders (A), Dragons
Should be able to cash in at least 3/4 here too. That start gives us plenty of time to work on combinations, with some easier and more moderate games to be dialed in for the next set.
10-14
Storm (A), Roosters (Magic), Penrith, Eels, Broncos (A)
I think this set almost makes or breaks our season. All tough games and potentially 4 top 4 challengers in there. 3 interstate games too. We show up here and claim even 2-3 big scalps and we could easily be sitting top 4 halfway in. You go 1/5 or worse through this set and the noise about beating top sides will be deafening, I'd be looking at potentially blooding some new players to give them a few months.
After that, we have a mix of games against bottom sides and those you'd expect to finish 5-12th. We could either be gunning for a top 4 spot or looking to reimagine the side.