Here's what I think half-way through the comp:
Brisbane: clear favourites
Nth Qld: contenders, but must win more away from home
St George: definite chance, must retain hunger though - Head's injury isn't fatal as Ennis and Hornby should be able to cover
Parramatta - doubts about their halves, but i like their attitude - always show up ready to play. certainties to finish in the top four, doubtful they will be serious contenders
Manly - bit like Parra - good top four prospects, but not premiership material
Canterbury - my dark horse, but geez they've gotta start winning
Cronulla - actually think they are a premiership chance. this is obscured by the big hole that they've fallen into during the last three weeks
Roosters - always seem to be in a position to win games, but nobody really takes the bull by the horns, and asserts themselves. preliminary final, at best
Melbourne - they either win by a million, or fold like a cheap tent. dont have ticker when teams stand up to them.