The Bulldogs' upset win over Souths lifted them four points clear of last place and will have given them renewed confidence heading into a clash with the second-placed Broncos.
The 70-point turnaround from a humiliating loss to Newcastle could prove the springboard for Cameron Ciraldo's men to finish the year strongly and lay a platform for 2024.
Having conceded 180 points across their past four matches the Bulldogs will certainly need to increase their defensive intensity if they are to match motors with the Broncos and Panthers in the next fortnight.
The Broncos are coming off a good win over the Dolphins in Round 19 and a bye last weekend so they'll be refreshed and ready to make a statement of intent and keep the heat on ladder leaders Penrith.
With games against the Rabbitohs, Roosters, Cowboys, Eels, Raiders and Storm to come, there is no margin for error for the Broncos as they eye a top-four finish and redemption for last year's fadeout.
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Team News
Bulldogs: No further changes on game day after Josh Addo-Carr was ruled out on Friday with a hamstring injury suffered in the closing stages of Wednesday's Origin match. His place is taken by Jeral Skelton, who made his NRL debut last week when he was activated as 18th Man against Souths. Rookie winger Blake Wilson keeps his spot after scoring three tries last week so Jacob Kiraz shifts to centres and Ethan Quai-Ward goes out of the 17 following his NRL debut in Round 19. After suffering a neck injury last week Ryan Sutton is out, with Raymond Faitala-Mariner the man to take his place at prop and Corey Waddell the new lock.
Broncos: No changes on game day. Forward leader Pat Carrigan is being rested on the back of a draining Origin series and playing 16 of the Broncos' 17 games to date. The loss of Payne Haas (ankle) sees Corey Jensen moved into the starting side. Back-rower Kurt Capewell returns after missing two games with a quad injury.
Corey Oates won't play in his 200th game after picking up a knee injury at training. Coach Kevin Walters confirmed on Friday that the winger had sustained meniscus damage and would be out for 4-6 weeks. Jesse Arthars comes into the starting side and Deine Mariner joins the bench.
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Stat Attack
- The Broncos lead the NRL in tackle breaks with 685. The Bulldogs rank 14th with 494.
- The Broncos entered Round 20 in fourth place last year but dropped five of their last six games to finish ninth.
- The Bulldogs have won only two of their past 10 games at Belmore Sports Ground.
- The Broncos have won their past four games against the Bulldogs.
- The Bulldogs have conceded 180 points in their past four games.
This article contains content that is only available on NRL.com
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.