The second game of NRL action on Friday night will take place in Sydney as the Bulldogs host the Rabbitohs. With both teams flirting with the edge of the Top 8, this game is worth more than just the two competition points as the winner could be set on a path towards the NRL Finals. This ensures that a thrilling contest awaits, and fans will be on the edge of their seats for this match. Before You Bet is here with a detailed look at what is ahead in this contest.
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 Rabbitohs Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 24 2026
Coming up short
The Bulldogs needed a win last week against the Roosters but failed to demonstrate experience and poise when it mattered most. Trailing 8-2 at HT, they pulled their way back into the match to lead 18-8 with 15 minutes remaining. The fast finish of their opponents meant they were unable to halt their momentum, as a horror completion rate (66%), lack of power (7.8m per carry), and 31 missed tackles hurt their momentum. Despite their poor finish, they can take positives away from the match as their attack continued to improve and pressured the Roosters in areas other teams haven’t been able to achieve.
Scraping home (in style)
Up 28-nil at HT against the Eels, the Rabbitohs were flying and looked every bit a quality team that could cause headaches for other teams inside the Top 8. Unfortunately, their scoring stopped, and they came out a vastly different team in the second half, eventually prevailing 28-24. The win saw them only control 46% possession and complete at 80%, continually making mistakes in the second half to give their opponents key territory. The finish shouldn’t eliminate the positives either. Their 10.1m per carry, 11 line breaks, and just 24 missed tackles are positive points to build upon in coming weeks.
Stats that matter
- These two sides met in Round 5 where the Rabbitohs were victorious 32-24. They have a slightly better record at this ground, winning 57% of matches compared to the Bulldogs 54%.
- In the past 5 matches, 4 games have been decided by 8 points or less. The average margin is still high (10.8 points) courtesy of a blowout 32-point win. The average total points in the same games is 46.8 points.
- The Rabbitohs have the superior attacking this season compared to the Bulldogs (19ppg vs 27ppg) but the Bulldogs are stronger defensively (22pg vs 24ppg) by allowing fewer points.
A close call
There is more than just 2 competition points on the line in this game, with a spot in the Finals likely decided upon this result. The Bulldogs have an edge and are listed as favourites. Their resurgence in positive form has many overlooking their shortcomings. While good last week, they gave up a winning chance. If they can produce that same standard here, they are a strong winning hope. The Rabbitohs have numerous flaws but seem to get ‘up’ for bigger matches. Their depth will be further challenged ahead of this match as Ward is replaced by Sullivan at halfback; the return of Graham boosts their edge and their bench, as Gray moves back there.
This game will go down to the wire. The Rabbitohs can bring a defensive pressure when needed and the Bulldogs will relish this challenge. Providing they can eliminate their mistakes, the Rabbitohs are a chance of winning this contest. So too are the Bulldogs but their recent form has reduced the attention on their shortcomings. The odds should have the two teams closer than what they are but rather than chase an upset victory, play it safe and invest on this game to be a thrilling contest that is only decided in the remaining few minutes.
Either team by 10.5 points or less
$1.83 (2 units)
Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points over 42.5 – see above for justification.
Leg 2 = Duncan to score – he has 3 tries in his past 5 matches against the Bulldogs, including two tries in the 2 most recent matches. The run last week served him well and with form at this ground (a try in his last match here), Duncan will relish returning to try scoring form.
Leg 3 = Crichton to score – when the game is on the line, Crichton needs the ball in his hands. He has 4 tries in his past 5 games against the Rabbitohs and has 3 tries in the past 4 matches at this venue.
Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday 14th August
Location: Accor Stadium, Sydney
Time: 8pm (AEST)
Odds: Bulldogs $1.62 vs Rabbitohs $2.30
Line: -3.5
Points: 42.5
Where to Watch Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs
Watch the Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
Tail our 2026 NRL Tips at Picklebet!
Not familiar with Picklebet or want to learn more? Check out our full Picklebet review here, or by clicking the banner below.
