The second game of the NRL Las Vegas weekend has two old rivals in the Bulldogs and Dragons playing one another. The Bulldogs are the only team in this event which played Finals last season, and they have acknowledged their desire to improve on last season’s campaign. The Dragons also possess a similar mindset but for vastly different reason. Amid a rebuild, they missed the Top 8 last season. Despite showing some positives, they were plagued by a lack of execution and talent. Now, they’re hoping that the experience of their coach can lift a club desperate for success. Scooby bring you his preview and best bet for the game below!
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2026 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Bulldogs vs Dragons Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 1 2026
Time for the Bulldogs to step up
The Bulldogs were tough and gritty in 2025, with their success built on strong defence. While their attack was void of points at times, they won more games than they lost. With a long preseason to prepare ahead of this campaign, there are signs that their attack will improve remarkably, and it must if they’re to achieve greater success. Their backline is stacked with talent, and they have strong forwards; however, attention will firmly be on Galvin at halfback. Thankfully, he has Burton alongside him. It will be interesting to see if they can strike the right balance to be successful.
Where is the Dragons' improvement coming from?
Not much has changed for the Dragons heading into this season and it is worrying for their 2026 campaign when the biggest recruit appears to be a coach. They were poor for majority of last season and no matter how hard he tried, coach Flanagan was unable to turn them around. His philosophy will ensure they’re strong defensively but that will only take them so far. They look capable in some areas but appear weak in others. If this spine manages to score more than 3 tries in this game, they can see that as a positive. Unfortunately, that also indicates where this team is at.
Stats that matter
- The Bulldogs have won the past 5 matches against the Dragons by an average of 12.4 points, with 3 victories being by fewer than 8 points. The average total points in those games are also 42.8.
- The ‘home’ team has won all 4 matches in Las Vegas over the past 2 years. 3 out of the 4 matches have been decided by a 1-12 margin.
- An indoor stadium with a perfectly dry field has seen the average points margin of matches played at this venue sit at 47.
Bulldogs to make a statement
The Bulldogs are building strongly into this season and have a squad of players which appear capable of making a statement here. If they are to be taken seriously in 2026 and improve on a previous campaign, they should easily account for the Dragons here. Fact is, they’re stronger in all areas and have displayed a greater level of consistency recently. A long preseason with their spine should create cohesion that is reflected in the points they are able to score. All the while, their rigid defence remains capable of absorbing what is thrown at them by the Dragons. Their opponents will have their chances though, but the Dragons are limited in the halves. One important factor which has been overlooked is their ability to build pressure at the end of sets with attacking kicks. That takes years of development, and it may not be where it needs to be to be successful in this contest. This also alludes to the fact that with their inability to score points, the Bulldogs should cover the line.
Bulldogs -7.5
$1.90 (1.5 units)
Bulldogs vs Dragons Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total Points over 38.5 – The average between these two sides is far higher and the conditions should again be favourable for vast, attacking rugby league.
Leg 2 = Preston to score – He scored 4 tries to end the season in as many weeks and should only get better heading into 2026.
Leg 3 = Bulldogs 13+ - early season games are usually tight, as are matches played at this venue. Nevertheless, a new edge is expected from the Bulldogs and they are going to want to make a statement in this game.
SGM Odds = $7.50 at Dabble
Bulldogs vs Dragons Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: 1st March
Location: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas
Time: 3:30pm (AEST)
Odds: Bulldogs $1.38 vs Dragons $3.05
Line: -7.5
Points: 38.5
Where to Watch Bulldogs vs Dragons
Watch the Bulldogs vs Dragons match live on Channel 9 as well as ad free on Kayo Sports.
Tail our Bulldogs vs Dragons Tips at Ladbrokes!
Not familiar with Ladbrokes or want to learn more? Check out our full Ladbrokes review here, or by clicking the banner below.
