September has arrived, and the start of finals footy is here, as eight teams are left fighting for the premiership.
With every side making the cut, we take a look at the weaknesses that could bring their 2026 campaign to an end.
Penrith Panthers: Halves Combination
Arguably the most successful team in NRL history, the Penrith Panthers have once again found themselves in finals footy. The side secured their spot for a home finals game and look to lift the trophy for the fifth time in six years.
However, the Panthers have faced several key injuries to their side and don't quite seem to know their best halves pairing yet. Will doubt around their halves prove to ruin the premiership favourites?
Nathan Cleary has remained the star halfback for the majority of the 2026 season for the Penrith side. However, the team is making continuous changes to find their ideal five-eighth to combine with Cleary.
Blaize Talagi looked to be the dominant five-eighth for the season, but due to his poor defensive efforts, Ivan Cleary dropped the 21-year-old.
Jack Cogger was brought into the starting side but was handed a three-match ban for a high shot on Tyran Wishart in their Round 25 clash against the Melbourne Storm.
Jack Cole has been named as the starting five-eighth since Round 25, as Cogger will miss the first week of finals. The combination of Cole and Cleary is an unproven halves combination, especially in finals.
