Wests Tigers - Finals Calibre for 2023

The Wests Tigers are a team that needs no introduction. They are the legends of Leichhardt, the team that won the Grand Final in 2005, and are still remembered and celebrated for it 17 years on. They are a team that has had its ups and downs, but always manages to stay in the game. And as we look ahead to the 2023 NRL season, we can't help but feel excited about what the Tigers have in store.

The Signings

One thing that's got us excited about the Tigers is their off-season signings. No team has signed better than the Tigers, and they now have the best edge back row pairing in the competition. With the likes of John Bateman and Isaiah Papali'i, the Tigers are sure to be a force to be reckoned with. And let's not forget about the additions of David Klemmer & Api Koroisau, both of which are NSW Blues calibre talent. All of these players will be key to the Tigers' success this season.

The Challenges

But while some are excited about the Tigers' off-season signings, others are more skeptical about the team's coaching. There are those who see the signing of Tim Sheens as a PR stunt, and wonder if it's just a way to give Wests Tigers fans a bit of hope. And then there's Benji Marshall, who will be the coach in three years, despite having zero coaching experience. But while there may be some concerns about the Tigers' coaching, there's no denying that this pairing has produced magic for Wests in the past.

Where do the Tigers Win & Lose?

One enormous strength is the Tigers' forward pack. As we all know, forward packs win competitions, and the Tigers have one of the best in the league. With the likes of David Klemmer, Joe Ofahengaue, and John Bateman leading the charge, the Tigers are sure to be a force to be reckoned with. And let's not forget about the talented hooker, Api Koroisau, who is sure to make an impact this season.

While the Tigers' forward pack is certainly impressive, critics are quick to point out a lack of pedigree in the backline. Charlie Staines was an interesting acquisition, and I personally don't have him in Wests' best 17. Nofoaluma returns from a stint with the Storm & Tommy Talau has been in phenomenal form through the preseason. Talk of Adam Doueihi being anything other than the starting 6 needs to be slienced, as he's been the brightest spark for this Tigers attack. But despite the clear, offensive upside, there are real concerns about the defensive resolve these edges will show.

One player that is sure to make a big impact for the Tigers this season is Stefano Utoikamanu. The young prop was impressive in his debut season, but his injury challenges through 2022. Utoikamanu is big, strong, and has a great work rate, and is sure to benefit from the Koroisau addition if he can stay fit & focused.

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Our Predictions

In conclusion, while there may be some concerns about the Tigers' coaching and their backline, there's no denying that this is a team with a lot of talent. With one of the best forward packs in the league and some exciting new signings, the Tigers are sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the 2023 NRL season. And while it's still early days, we can't help but feel excited about what the mighty Wests Tigers have in store for us this year.

So get ready, Tigers fans, because it's going to be a wild ride!

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Longy's prediction: 8th

Burgz prediction: 10th-12th