LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
As the regular season of the NRL comes to a close, there are still 10 teams in contention for a spot in the finals.
The Penrith Panthers hold the key to determining the final eight teams and the fate of those who will be heading to Mad Monday.
The outcome of the Broncos versus Storm game in Round 27 will heavily influence the Panthers' decision.
If Brisbane can secure a win and wrap up the minor premiership, it is highly likely that the Panthers will rest their top players in their match against the Cowboys.
However, the Broncos will face a tough challenge against the Storm, who they haven't beaten in their last 13 meetings dating back to 2016.
The last time the Broncos defeated the Storm in Brisbane was in 2009.
Although the Storm have their own injury concerns, with halfback Jahrome Hughes unlikely to play due to a knee injury and Harry Grant dealing with a shoulder problem.
Coach Craig Bellamy may opt to rest these key players ahead of the finals.
The outcome of the Broncos-Storm clash is uncertain, and it could go either way.
But if the Broncos manage to break their losing streak against the Storm, it is highly probable that the Panthers will prioritize resting their top players, as the Broncos would have secured the minor premiership.
This decision by the Panthers could spell disaster for other finals contenders, as they may face a weakened Penrith side in the final round.
With so much at stake and multiple teams still in the race for the finals, the NRL ladder predictor is in overdrive as fans anxiously await the outcome of the Broncos-Storm clash and the subsequent decision by the Penrith Panthers.
The fate of the finals contenders hangs in the balance, and a single decision by one team could have far-reaching consequences for the rest of the competition.