The Sea Eagles will determine the result of this game. If they turn up and improve on their performance from last week they should have too much experience for a Broncos team that has plenty of upside but is still learning how to become a great team.
HOWEVER, that is a big if and as such I've got to back the Broncos.
Here is where I sit with Manly.
The other day, I said 'Good for DCE' because out of everyone involved he was the only one to profit. Manly are right on the edge of their run as one of the top teams in the competition and by having to pay out the ass to sign DCE because they fumbled around with him initially I believe they have subjected themselves to six years of also-ran status. That isn't to say they'll never make another finals but I can't see them truly competing for another premiership in that time frame.
When Manly began their ascent up the ladder, it was on the back of their forward pack which included such names as Ben Kennedy, Anthony Watmough, Steve Menzies and Glenn Stewart. When I look at their current formation, I struggle to see anybody of that calibre. Sure, they've got a bunch of handy players but they can only make an impact for so long before they begin to wilt - they lack the authority that MADE Manly.
So on the face of it, I think the Broncos should be too strong.
Outside of DCE, the one Manly player I'll be keeping an eye on is Dunamis Lui. This is his open audition to show the Broncos how far he's come and how much he wants to return. If Wayne is entertaining the idea, Lui HAS to have a big game.