Twenty-two regular season rounds were played from March till August, resulting in a top five of Easts, Canterbury, Wests, St. George and Souths who battled it out in the finals.

After that the experimental 1980 State of Origin game was played, and NSWRFL clubs' players represented Queensland for the first time.

Rugby League Week gave its player of the year award to Eastern Suburbs' halfback Kevin Hastings.

After the break Steve Gearin edged the Bulldogs clear with three successive goals after aggressive play from the Roosters – led by John Tobin's focus on the Hughes brothers – was penalised by referee Greg Hartley.

Gearin followed through at speed and outjumped opposing winger David Michael, catching the ball on the full to score and secure a Bulldogs victory.