The Canberra Raiders have had a great run throughout the NRL season so far in 2025. They currently sit second on the ladder, but have recorded the most wins of any team in the competition having built up an impressive record of 10 wins and 3 losses. The Bulldogs sit above them currently holding first position, but they have had the benefit of two byes. In fact the Raiders are currently the only team who are yet to have had one of their bye rounds.

The Raiders have been able to build up such an impressive record is testimony to the incredible work Ricky Stuart has done to transform the Raiders into genuine premiership contenders. The Raiders last loss was against a resurgent Bulldogs side who have been the most damaging side in the competition. Although there is a sense that the Bulldogs are walking a tightrope to maintain momentum and avoid an implosion with the recent acquisition of Lachlan Galvin being transitioned into the side. Before that the Raiders had tow consecutive losses to the Cowboys up in Townsville and Manly in Brookvale during round three and four of the season.

During the season so far they have managed to claim huge wins against the Warriors twice, the Broncos, Sharks, Storm and Roosters. Looking ahead they obviously have their two byes to look forward too, but they also have a surprisingly easy run throughout the second half of the season. As things currently stand, the Raiders only play two teams that are currently positioned in the top eight on the NRL ladder. They have to go up against the Dragons twice and the Sea Eagles once, other than that they are playing teams currently down the bottom half of the ladder. Throw into consideration that 6 of their last 11 games are all at home in Canberra and suddenly it becomes clear that the Raiders have a great run in to secure a minor premiership, which they haven’t done since 1990.

Aside from their form and fixture scheduling that is all playing into their favour, the Raiders have also been one of the best teams to watch in 2025. Ricky Stuart seems to have found the perfect combination between experience, youth, aggression and discipline. Their key lynchpin Jamal Fogarty is all in on success in 2025 and they have already shown their depth with Ethan Sanders competently filling in during their last round victory over the Roosters. With all that in mind there is plenty of reasons why the Raiders are set up for success in 2025 and should make the most of their clear run into claim the minor premiership.