Will both missing finals footy in 2026, the Canterbury Bulldogs and Brisbane Broncos will close their seasons at Accor Stadium on Thursday night. 

The Bulldogs’ finals hopes remained alive entering last weekend, but their 24-10 loss to the Panthers on Friday, coupled with a Cowboys victory, ended their chances of reaching the top eight. 

Meanwhile, the Broncos were demolished 46-20 by the Storm in their final home match of the season last Thursday. 

Brisbane could still finish 16th in what has become the worst NRL premiership defence of all time, managing just seven wins so far this season, one of those wins was against the Bulldogs though back in Round 8. 

Canterbury have retained the same starting 13 from last week’s spirited effort, with Jed Reardon and Jack Underhill joining the extended interchange, while Brisbane is forced into one change as Ben Talty replaces Blake Mozer (concussion) on the interchange.

For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights ahead of the opening match of NRL Round 27, check out our Bulldogs vs Broncos tips and predictions below!

Bulldogs vs Broncos Prediction and Betting Tips 

Head-to-Head Prediction 

There will be only pride on the line in the opening match of NRL Round 27, as neither the Bulldogs nor the Broncos are able to make the finals this season.

There’s not a whole lot to love about either of these sides or much to report either. Both were last start losers and the only real edge to be found anywhere is the fact that Canterbury have won each of its last seven home matches when playing with a rest disadvantage.

That should be more than enough against a Brisbane team who appear to have given up weeks ago, particularly away from home.

We’re tipping the bulldogs to add one more L to the arguably the worst premiership defence in NRL history. 

Betting tip: Canterbury Bulldogs. 

First Try Scorer Prediction 

Of all of Canterbury’s players this season, captain Stephen Crichton is one that can hold his head high. He covered a number of positions and came up clutch multiple times for his side.

He also has quite the record against the Broncos and has scored a try in three of his four previous home appearances against Brisbane. That’s why he’s our pick for first try scorer here. 

Betting tip: Stephen Crichton.

Over/Under Prediction 

Five of Canterbury's last six home matches have gone under the total match points line.

Betting tip: Under 53.5 total match points. 

Line Prediction

Brisbane has covered the line in eight of their last nine matches against Canterbury.

Betting tip: Broncos (+10.5) line. 

Bulldogs vs Broncos Anytime Try Scorer Betting Tips 

Ezra Mam

Ezra Mam has scored at least one try in each of Brisbane's last three away matches.

Connor Tracey

In each of Brisbane's last four matches, the opposition's starting fullback has scored at least one try.

Billy Walters

Billy Walters has scored a try in three of his last four appearances against Canterbury.

Matt Burton

Matt Burton has scored at least one try in four of Canterbury's last five matches as a favourite.

Bulldogs vs Broncos Teams 

Canterbury Bulldogs Team List 

1. Connor Tracey

2. Jacob Kiraz

3. Matt Burton

4. Bronson Xerri

5. Enari Tuala

6. Stephen Crichton (c)

7. Lachlan Galvin

8. Max King

9. Bailey Hayward

10. Leo Thompson

11. Viliame Kikau

12. Jacob Preston 

13. Jaeman Salmon

14. Jake Turpin

15. Alekolasimi Jones

16. Harry Hayes

17. Josh Curran

18. Jed Reardon

19. Jack Underhill

Brisbane Broncos Team List 

1. Hayze Perham

2. Josiah Karapani

3. Kotoni Staggs

4. Deine Mariner

5. Grant Anderson

6. Ezra Mam 

7. Ben Hunt

8. Xavier Willison

9. Billy Walters

10. Payne Haas

11. Jaiyden Hunt

12. Jordan Riki

13. Pat Carrigan (c)

14. Tom Duffy

15. Va'a Semu

16. Jack Gosiewski

17. Aublix Tawha

18. Gehamat Shibasaki

19. Ben Talty

Bulldogs vs Broncos Match Details 

Date: Thursday, September 3, 2026. 

Kick-off: 7:50pm AEST. 

Location: Accor Stadium, Sydney.