NRL Expert Tips | 2025 Pre Season Draw and Team Analysis

The NRL draw and strength of schedule is never fair each season, and will end up significantly to the advantage and or disadvantage of a number of teams. Should those advantaged also be a likely top of table contender it can be the difference between a top 4 and double chance shot or for those struggling mid table or below be the difference toward a semi finals spot of a failing season.

Many things come in to play. Who each team is drawn to play twice, the number of times they might play the stronger sides, when their bye rounds fall and if they have a difficult or not so difficult run through the Origin rep period while home ground advantage and the number of true games a team might get to play with this advantage another factor.

While on paper at the start of the season many might argue well you just have to be good enough.. yes, most certainly you do but for those teams that might play 10 games against the top of table contenders (compared to some who play just 4) or those that play without key rep starts for 3 games through the Origin rep period (while others might have only one game commitment) this can then be the difference between a top 6 position and running 10th and missing the finals (and all the additional negative focus and pressure that that then brings..).

Two seasons ago the Raiders while leaking 26 pts a week and finishing the season with a negative differential fell into a top 8 spot on the back of the softest draw for any team that season. Last year the Sharks were significantly advantaged in finishing top 4 with the softest draw of any team.

In short the draw and strength of schedule matters.

The following teams are listed in table finishing order at the end of round 27 2024.