Dolphins vs Cowboys Prediction: Dolphins can put on a show in Brisbane

There’s an all-Queensland affair to look forward to in the NRL on Thursday morning (10:50, Watch NRL) as the Dolphins and the North Queensland Cowboys prepare to face off at Suncorp Stadium.

Alex Jack provides his best bets in his Dolphins vs Cowboys prediction piece, as well as all the essential team news and match odds for the battle in Brisbane.

Team News

Starting with the Dolphins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (thumb) and Mark Nicholls (concussion) have been ruled out due to injury.

It means the hosts go with a starting pack of Kurt Donoghoe, Oryn Keeley, Connelly Lemuelu, Aublix Tawha, Jeremy Marshall-King and Francis Molo.

In the backs, the Dolphins start with Isaiya Katoa, Jake Averillo, Tevita Naufahu, Herbie Farnworth, Max Feagai, Jamayne Isaako and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.

As for the Cowboys, North Queensland name Harrison Edwards, Jeremiah Nanai, Reuben Cotter, Griffin Naeme, Reece Robson and Thomas Mikaele in the forwards.

Tom Dearden, Jaxon Purdue, Murray Taulagi, Zac Laybutt, Braidon Burns, Jaxson Paulo and Scott Drinkwater are in the backs.

Jordan McLean will miss for the Cowboys in Thursday's clash as he manages minor calf and ankle injuries.

Dolphins vs Cowboys Odds

The Dolphins are the 8/15 favourites for the win, while the Cowboys are 8/5 to claim the bragging rights with victory at Suncorp Stadium.

A draw in Brisbane is available at 20/1, while the Dolphins to be leading at half-time and full-time is currently 20/21.

Dolphins -6 handicap @ 20/21

Having beaten the Cowboys 58-4 in their last meeting at Queensland Country Bank Stadium last month, the Dolphins look capable of backing up that performance with victory in Brisbane on Thursday.

The Dolphins also managed a 50-8 victory away at the Cowboys back in February and are looking for their fourth win on the spin against the men from Townsville.

Looking to bounce back from a disappointing 24-12 defeat at Cronulla Sharks last time out, the Dolphins are good value to win and cover the handicap against the Cowboys.

Over 49.5 total points @ 10/11

The Dolphins have been in free-scoring form at Suncorp Stadium, racking up over 50 points in their last two games at the Brisbane venue.

Having scored 108 points in their last two meetings with the Cowboys, with both those games coming in Townsville, going for over 49.5 total points certainly appeals here.

The Cowboys have hardly been rock-solid in their defensive work in recent weeks, conceding 200 points in their last six NRL games.

With that in mind, going for the over on the total at Suncorp Stadium catches the eye at odds of 10/11.

Click here for the latest Rugby League Odds

You can read all our latest Rugby League Betting Tips at our dedicated Betfred Insights Rugby League content hub