Hull KR backed for play-off spot with Hull FC written off by bookies

Hull KR are being backed to secure a play-off spot by the bookies next year after they gave their early odds for the season. After finishing fourth in last year's Super League, and reaching the play-off semi-finals, Rovers' odds have been slashed considerably compared to this time last year.

Rovers were outsiders to even make the play-offs last season and at one point, bookies were offering 14/1 odds on Willie Peters' side even making the play-offs. This year, however, they are currently 11/1 to win the Super League Grand final with the sport's main sponsor, Betfred. That makes them sixth favourites at present, above the likes of Challenge Cup winners Leigh Leopards (16/1) and cross-city rivals Hull FC, who are priced at 18/1.

The Black and Whites will be hopeful of a better season in what will be Tony Smith's second in charge. They haven't made the play-offs for the past three seasons but have overseen an extensive recruitment drive that has added size to their pack.

As it stands, Wigan Warriors are the favourites to retain the title, with prices as short as 9/4. They are closely followed by fierce rivals St Helens, who you can get odds of 11/4 on to regain the title they had held for the four previous seasons. Leeds Rhinos' high-profile recruitment drive has seen them backed, with odds of 15/2 available. Those odds are shorter than what you can get on Sam Burgess' Warrington Wolves and last season's Grand Finalists, Catalans Dragons, who are both at 8/1.

At the other end of the table, London Broncos are overwhelming favourites to finish bottom, priced at 1/3 on. They are followed by Castleford Tigers at 5/1 and Salford Red Devils, who are at 6/1. The full odds can be found here.