As warmer weather approaches, the ambitions of the NRL's elite intensify, while those at the bottom begin their countdown to the season's end.
Should South Sydney overcome Canterbury on Friday night, the ninth-placed Bulldogs will find themselves two victories away from the top eight, leaving their playoff aspirations feeling more theoretical than achievable.
This scenario suggests that with the top eight firmly established, the nine clubs destined to miss the finals in 2026 face four matches filled with unpredictable stakes.
Amid this backdrop, young players will seize opportunities to forge their futures, while others will reflect on past glories as their careers draw near an end.
The ongoing discussions about a possible wildcard round or an expanded finals series, where matches become mere "content" aimed at generating revenue, will reignite.
For struggling teams, the greatest achievement may become ruining the dreams of more successful opponents, with constant reminders that they are merely "playing for pride," which can deepen their sense of failure.
In this challenging landscape, Phillip Sami, a figure synonymous with Gold Coast resilience, aims to etch his name in history.
Currently tied with Anthony Don as the Titans' all-time leading try-scorer with 85, Sami has four games remaining to secure one more try before transitioning to St George Illawarra.
This achievement would be a fitting tribute to a decade dedicated to a cause that seems to perpetually restart.