Teams they play twice: Cowboys, Sharks, Broncos, Eels, Warriors, Sea Eagles, Knghts, Panthers, Storm
Teams they play once: Wests Tigers, Titans, Bulldogs, Roosters, Dragons, Rabbitohs
Starting point: The Raiders will need to hit the ground running with an opening round trip to Townsville to take on the Cowboys, before hosting 2016 premiers Cronulla Sharks in Round 2. The Raiders also face the Broncos and Eels in the opening five rounds which could prove an early litmus test for their premiership credentials.
Tough run: The above mentioned first five rounds could prove crucial, while a make-or-break stretch between Rounds 16-22 will see the Raiders take on the Broncos, Cowboys, Storm and Sharks in what could be a season-defining few months of football.
Show-stoppers: Canberra's first home game of the season against the Sharks should provide fireworks after their clash in the finals in 2016, while two matches against the Storm – who knocked them out of the preliminary finals – should also rate highly on all Canberra fans' calendars.
Origin impact: (Byes: Round 15 and 18.) The Raiders play once in the major Origin bye weeks, against the Roosters. They also take on the Broncos directly after Origin II – which could be a great opportunity to take advantage of a Brisbane side with a host of stars backing up.
This article first appeared on NRL.com
