NRL Odds:South Sydney Rabbitohs $1.25 (-12.5) / St George Illawarra Dragons $4.00 (+12.5)
Coming off the back a heart-breaking one-point loss to Melbourne last week, the Bunnies head into this week’s clash as deserved short-priced favourites.
After their bruising encounter against the Storm, Souths have named an unchanged line-up this week as they look to move one step closer to a Grand Final birth.
Souths' extra two days rest over the Dragons is a huge plus, especially given star forward James Graham needs to pass concussion tests to be cleared in time for the game.
The Dragons surprised many last week, blowing the Broncos off the park 48-18 in front a parochial Brisbane home crowd.
The more experienced St George forward pack overpowered the Broncos forwards and laid the perfect platform for their halves to control the game. The most notable was Tariq Sims, who crossed for three tries in a career-best performance.
The return of play maker Gareth Widdop to the line-up appeared to be the catalyst for this form reversal. However, when Widdop re-injured his shoulder late in the game, Dragons fans held their collective breath as their finals hopes took a massive hit.
With Widdop ruled out for the rest of the season, all eyes turn to star halfback Ben Hunt who will need to step-up and rise to the occasion.
Without Widdop, St George has triumphed in only one of three games this season. Conversely, with him in the line-up, they have won an impressive 14 from 22.
Round 10 Rabbitohs and Dragons highlights
For the Bunnies to win..
They must stay patient and not overplay their hand. If the Bunnies complete at a high percentage of sets, they should prove too strong for the Dragons.
Souths' forward pack must keep their handling errors to a minimum. The Burgess brothers are a force to be reckoned with, however on more than one occasion this season they have made handling errors at crucial points in the game.
For the Dragons to win..
They'll need a monumental effort from their forward pack. If the likes of James Graham, Tyson Frizell and Tariq Sims can out-muscle the Bunnies pack it will give Ben Hunt the opportunity to prove his worth.
Without Gareth Widdop, Dragons fullback Matt Dufty will need to be at his elusive best. Dufty must work closely with Hunt and command plenty of ball if the Dragons are to threaten the Bunnies defensive line.
H Sele (Dragons), Nil (Rabbitohs)
G Widdop (Dragons), Nil (Rabbitohs)
Fine and 21 degrees.
Key NRL stats
Average points scored: Rabbitohs 24.4 / Dragons 22.7
Average points conceded: Rabbitohs 18.6 / Dragons 19.6
Souths have won 3 of their last 5 games against St George
The Rabbitohs have covered the line at 60.0% this season: Rabbitohs -12.5 @$1.90
Cody Walker (4) leads both teams in first try scorers this season: Cody Walker first try @ $19
The Rabbitohs have won their last four matches against the Dragons at ANZ Stadium - Souths $1.25
NRL Betting Tip: Rabbitohs -12.5 @ $1.90
Reasoning: Expect the floodgates to open here. The Dragons are coming off a surprise win last week, but the loss of Gareth Widdop will be too great for them to overcome.
It's difficult to see them stay in this game beyond half-time. If the Bunnies score some early points, don't be surprised to see them put a big score on the Dragons.
Sep 13, 2018 12:57 PM
AAP
H Sele (Dragons), Nil (Rabbitohs)
G Widdop (Dragons), Nil (Rabbitohs) 
Fine and 21 degrees.
Key NRL stats
Key NRL Betting Stats
NRL Betting Tip: Rabbitohs -12.5 @ $1.90 
