With four matches against sides currently in the top six to come, the Kangaroos have a huge task ahead of them to stay in the mix for the top eight.
In its favour is the fact North only has to travel twice for the remainder of the season, with the Bombers and Geelong the only other sides to enjoy the same luxury.
St Kilda’s fixture is regarded as the hardest with matches against each of the top six teams, while the Gold Coast Suns’ draw is considered the most favourable.
NMFC.com.au looks at the upcoming schedule for the final 10 rounds.
Round 14 v Greater Western Sydney – Etihad Stadium (H)
Current record: 18th place – 0 wins, 12 losses
The Giants have been soundly beaten in most of their matches this year, but can’t be taken lightly.
They pushed the Bombers all the way in Round 6, and despite a 59-point loss, they were ultra-impressive against Geelong only a fortnight ago.
North will look to make the most of the Giants’ poor record away from home, in which they are yet to win in 16 outings in their history.
Coming off the bye, Greater Western Sydney’s fresh legs will mean the Kangaroos will need to be on their game early.
Round 15 v Richmond – Etihad Stadium (H)
Current record: 6th place – 8 wins, 4 losses
Another impressive victory sees the Tigers up to sixth position, and with a winnable game against the Saints coming up, they could go into Round 15 with plenty of confidence.
North and Richmond have a recent history of close matches, and this one could be no exception.
Round 16 v Brisbane – GABBA (A)
Current record: 14th place – 4 wins, 8 losses
North’s Round 4 win against the Lions was arguably its best of the season so far, but at the GABBA it becomes a whole new ball game.
The Lions were resilient in their comeback against Geelong, and will hope to use the win as a platform for the rest of the season.
The Kangaroos haven’t won at the GABBA since 2005, and it won’t be an easy task.
Round 17 v Carlton – Etihad Stadium (H)
Current record: 9th place – 6 wins, 6 losses
The Blues’ ladder position perhaps isn’t an accurate reflection of just how impressive they’ve been.
Close losses against Geelong, Hawthorn and Essendon are evidence of a quality side, although the Kangaroos could be considered similar.
Upcoming clashes against Sydney and Collingwood may provide a greater gauge of exactly where Carlton is at.
Nevertheless, with a top eight appearance likely to be on the line, there’s sure to be plenty of heat in the Friday night blockbuster.
Round 18 v Melbourne – Etihad Stadium (A)
Current record: 17th place – 1 win, 11 losses
With a coaching change, the Demons had renewed energy despite falling to the Saints.
Neil Craig’s team will have a point to prove in the second half of the season.
North’s recent record against Melbourne (10 wins in a row) will mean nothing come gameday.
Round 19 v Geelong – Etihad Stadium (H)
Current record: 2nd place – 10 wins, 2 losses
The Cats’ experienced heads got them over the line in Round 2 after North dominated.
Letting go of a 42-point lead will be on the minds of the Kangaroos, but could also provide the perfect motivation to turn the tide.
Geelong’s loss to Brisbane will make them an even more intimidating force, with Chris Scott’s team sure to be fired up in the next month.
Round 20 v Adelaide – AAMI Stadium (A)
Current record: 11th place – 5 wins, 7 losses
Brenton Sanderson’s men saluted in fine style in Round 9 against the odds, and in front of their home crowd, they will go in with plenty of confidence.
North hasn’t won at AAMI Stadium against Adelaide since 2003, so the task is huge.
With a tough run in the lead-up, the Crows’ finals hopes may be already decided.
Round 21 v Essendon – Etihad Stadium (A)
Current record: 4th place – 9 wins, 3 losses
Given the Bombers’ current form, the game could have top four repercussions.
North has no troubles finding motivation for matches against an old rival, so it’s sure to be a great battle no matter the circumstances.
Round 22 v Hawthorn – Etihad Stadium (H)
Current record: 1st place – 11 wins, 1 loss
After a heartbreaking loss in Round 5, the Kangaroos know they can match it with the ladder-leader.
The Hawks won’t be easing up leading into the finals, pushing to keep their momentum going.
Round 23 v Collingwood – MCG (A)
Current record: 6th place – 8 wins, 4 losses
The Magpies’ form is hard to read after three wins against lower-placed sides, but they are at their best come the pointy end of the season and will provide another huge challenge.
