Naufahu Whyte says the Sydney Roosters' forwards will stand together if Friday's preliminary final against the Dolphins becomes heated at Suncorp Stadium.
Four players were sin-binned during the Roosters' 64-12 victory over the Dolphins late last year, after a high hit on Billy Smith triggered confrontations.
Spencer Leniu and Aublix Tawha clashed twice, while Whyte became involved with Francis Molo. Dolphins captain Isaiya Katoa later said his team had learned to remain composed.
Whyte, however, remains prepared for another confrontation. "It's a pack-versus-pack (situation)," Whyte said.
"They're sticking up for their brothers, I'm doing the same for Spencer. If it goes down again, I'll have my brother's back."
Leniu's discipline has also attracted scrutiny after he conceded a possession penalty while targeting Keaon Koloamatangi in round 27.
The Roosters removed Leniu soon afterwards and did not recall him, avoiding further risk before the finals.
Whyte said the Roosters' middle forwards must impose themselves, adding, "We'll go after any pack. No matter who you are, no matter what number you have, we're coming after you."
He enters the match transformed from the player who appeared in the 2024 preliminary final against Melbourne, having then started eight matches and averaged about 30 minutes.
Whyte now leads all NRL forwards for post-contact metres. "I'm just more confident in myself," he said, believing he can compete with anyone.