With six teams still alive, finals football is exposing which sides can manage pressure as well as produce attacking moments.
Two teams disappear each week, while opponents become more familiar with one another's plans and mistakes carry heavier consequences.
The Dolphins remain an intriguing contender, combining a dangerous backline, a dependable forward pack and gifted halves.
They have also shown an ability to win matches without relying solely on attractive football.
Their tactical approach against the Warriors was particularly revealing.
As discussed in this week's Coach's Corner analysis on the Loose Carry podcast, the Dolphins deliberately conceded penalties when the Warriors approached their try line.
That tactic disrupted momentum and affected the match's rhythm, although some observers may dislike it from an NRL newcomer.
Nevertheless, such decisions reflect the detail required during the finals.
Successful teams identify what opponents are trying to achieve, then either prevent those actions or invite them when they have a safeguard in place.
Every remaining side now faces its own unanswered questions, and surviving adversity will be central to answering them.