Brisbane have made no secret of their plans to feed strike weapon James Roberts more ball as he prepares to re-engage with Sydney Roosters star Latrell Mitchell on Saturday.

Roberts prevailed when the pair waged one of the NRL season’s most exhilarating one-on-one battles earlier this year but has struggled to make an impact in recent weeks.

Both Broncos captain Darius Boyd and halfback Kodi Nikorima have committed to addressing that though, as the side looks to improve their premiership credentials against the highly-fancied Roosters.

Nikorima said he erred in involving Roberts late in their sets last Thursday against South Sydney in a move that restricted their last-tackle options.

“I was trying to hit Jimmy on the fourth tackle and that puts pressure on us,” he said.

“I won’t be doing that this week … it’ll be the second or third tackle this week I’d imagine.”

Boyd’s return to fullback has also coincided with the reappearance of his menacing passing game, having set up the first of Corey Oates’ three tries against the Rabbitohs.

The captain is conscious of how that, and his ability to float either side of the field in a roaming three-man partnership with Nikorima and Anthony Milford, can help Roberts.

“We need to get Jimmy some quality ball, not just give it to him for the sake of it,” he said.

“He’s a strike weapon and would be good to see him get one over Latrell for sure.”

Mitchell outplayed Roberts when the sides met at Suncorp Stadium in round 11, before James rallied with a second-half performance that included one of the tries of the season down the right wing.

“It was probably a draw,” Boyd said of the NSW Origin pair’s duel.

“Those guys put bums on seats; that’s what this time of year’s all about … finals is coming, the sun’s coming out.”

Brisbane’s defeat of the Rabbitohs all-but secured their finals berth and according to Boyd handed them a realistic shot at a title.

“It’s possible; you look at the Cowboys last year (who came from eighth to make the grand final),” he said.

“I don’t think anyone’s put their hand up to be honest to lead the pack, lead the way.

“Whoever hits the most momentum in the next couple of weeks leading into finals … it’s a new ball game, lot of pressure, the big-game players come out to play.”