The Eels are set to navigate the post-Josh Hodgson era, with the hooker position witnessing a tussle between Brendan Hands and Joey Lussick. Hands looks likely to take the lead in Round 1, but Lussick remains a strong contender, adding an internal competitive edge to the squad. Despite the distractions of contract talks and positional uncertainties last season, Parramatta's core group, including Clint Gutherson, Mitch Moses, and Dylan Brown, have emerged more focused. Gutherson, in career-best form, Moses with a new contract, and Brown rebounding from a troubled season, are pivotal in driving the team's ambition to end their 38-year premiership drought. Daejarn Asi and new recruit Morgan Harper are in the frame for the centres, while a forward-heavy bench seems to be the strategy, with new recruit Kelma Tuilagi joining Ryan Matterson and Wiremu Greig. The Bulldogs enter 2024 with a significantly revamped squad. The inclusion of three-time premiership winner Stephen Crichton and new recruit Blake Taaffe presents a flexible backline, with Crichton possibly moving to fullback or pairing with Taaffe in the centres. Bronson Xerri, returning from suspension, competes for a centre spot, though Connor Tracey might start ahead in the pecking order. The forward pack sees Josh Curran likely stepping into the lock position, while Kurt Mann is poised to bring his utility skills. The Bulldogs’ bench will feature Jaeman Salmon, Harrison Edwards, and Samuel Hughes, with Ryan Sutton’s availability in question due to injury. This new-look Bulldogs team, infused with the experience and winning culture of marquee signings like Crichton, Curran, Mann, and Drew Hutchison, is set to be markedly different from their 2023 closing lineup. With the Eels banking on their established core and the Bulldogs showcasing their fresh lineup, this match promises to be an exciting start to the season, setting the tone for both teams' 2024 campaigns.