NRL Betting Predictions & Tips Round 8
Round 8 has something for everyone – a five-and-a-half point…
State of Origin 2024 Game 2 Tips
Game 2 of the 2026 Ampol State of Origin on June 18 features the Queensland Maroons vs New South Wales Blues at Optus Stadium on Wednesday night. Get the latest Origin betting tips, predictions, and analysis right here, and catch the game live on Nine, 9NOW, Kayo & Foxtel.
Queensland Maroons vs New South Wales Blues Predictions
Wednesday, June 18, 2026
8:05pm @ Optus Stadium, Perth
Final Score Prediction
QLD
Maroons
14 : 20
NSW
Blues
NSW’s dominance in Game 1 carries forward to Perth.
After controlling Game 1 with an 18-6 victory at Suncorp Stadium, the Blues head west as heavy favourites to wrap up the series. Queensland will show more fight at home, but NSW’s superior class should prevail again.
Win Percentages
Maroons
35.2%
35.2%
Blues
64.8%
64.8%
The Market Assessment
The bookies have NSW as strong favourites at $1.45, reflecting their dominant Game 1 performance and the momentum of leading the series 1-0.
Queensland at $2.75 represents decent value for those backing a desperate Maroons outfit, but they face an uphill battle after being outclassed in Brisbane.
Why NSW Should Win
The Blues completely dominated Game 1, winning 18-6 at Suncorp Stadium with a performance that showcased their superior attacking structure and defensive resilience.
Leading the series 1-0, NSW can afford to play with confidence and freedom, knowing one more win secures the shield. Their forward pack dominated the middle in Game 1, and their spine looked in complete control.
Game 1 Analysis
NSW’s 18-6 victory at Suncorp Stadium revealed the gulf in class between these sides:
- Forward Dominance: NSW’s pack controlled the middle third and ruck speed
- Defensive Structure: Blues restricted Queensland to just one try
- Series Momentum: NSW are now 1-0 up and can clinch with another win
- Venue Factor: Moving to neutral Perth removes Queensland’s home advantage
- Confidence: Blues played with composure while Maroons looked rattled
Game Style Prediction: Another defensive grind with NSW’s superior execution proving decisive in the final quarter.
Expected Total: Around 34 points – defensive battle expected again after low-scoring Game 1
Our Betting Strategy
Safe Play: Blues to Win
New South Wales @ $1.43
The most reliable bet after their dominant Game 1 display. NSW’s superiority was evident at Suncorp, and leading 1-0 in the series gives them all the confidence they need.
Better Value: Blues -6.5
NSW -6.5 @ $1.87
Our predicted 6-point margin makes this line attractive. NSW won by 12 in Game 1 and should cover this spread comfortably if they repeat that performance.
The Upset Case
If you’re backing Queensland at $2.75, here’s what needs to happen: they need to show the fighting spirit that was missing in Game 1, their forward pack must match NSW’s intensity from the opening whistle, and they need to capitalise on every scoring opportunity.
Being backed into a corner could bring out the best in Queensland, and desperate teams often perform Origin miracles.
Reality Check: While Origin upsets happen, NSW’s Game 1 dominance and series lead make them hard to oppose. Queensland are paying $2.75 because they have serious questions to answer.
The Bottom Line
NSW’s comprehensive Game 1 victory suggests they’ve got Queensland’s measure in 2026. Leading the series 1-0 and playing with confidence, the Blues look set to clinch the shield in Perth.
Queensland will show more fight in a must-win scenario, but unless they drastically improve from Game 1, NSW should have enough class to close out the series.
Remember to gamble responsibly.
Related:
Origin Series
Check our coverage of the full State of Origin series for all three games.
NRL Coverage
Don’t miss our NRL betting tips for all weekend games this round.
Other Betting Tips
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