Rangers Favored to Claim Title Over Hearts and Celtic, But Will They Succeed?

With only five games remaining, the Scottish Premiership is set for a thrilling conclusion. The post-split fixtures commence this weekend, promising more drama in an already unpredictable season. Celtic can move level on points with the leaders if they secure a home win against Falkirk, broadcast live on Sky Sports. The following day, Rangers face Motherwell, and then the current leaders, Hearts, take on Hibernian in the final Edinburgh derby of the season, also live on Sky Sports. Despite Hearts' lead, Rangers are now the title favorites according to bookmakers and Opta's supercomputer, which predicts Rangers will finish top, followed by Hearts and then Celtic. The Hoops have not finished outside the top two since 1995, while Hearts last split the Old Firm and finished second in 2006 and last won the title in 1960. Over the coming weeks, both will aim to defy the odds. Historical three-way title tussles are rare, with the most notable being in 1983 when Dundee United won their only top-flight trophy. This season's race is reminiscent of 1998, when Hearts, Celtic, and Rangers were all in contention. However, a derby defeat for Hearts and struggles from Rangers allowed Celtic to prevail. Going back to 1986, Hearts missed out on the title, needing just a draw on the final day but losing and allowing Celtic to win on goal difference. These instances give both Hearts and Rangers fans hope that history won't repeat itself, while Celtic fans dare to dream. Celtic's journey to this point has been tumultuous, with three managers and a chaotic campaign. However, their home form could give them an edge, hosting their title rivals at Parkhead, where they've won four of their last five league games. Rangers have won once in their last five away games, and Hearts have taken one point from their last five on the road. Celtic are the only title challenger with three home games in the run-in, while Hearts and Rangers face three away games in their last five. The results between the title contenders will be crucial, with Hearts winning at Celtic Park in December and Rangers also beating Celtic in Glasgow. Hearts also defeated Rangers at Tynecastle ahead of their upcoming meeting. While Hearts and Rangers took advantage of a free week to train in Spain, Celtic booked their place in the Scottish Cup final. The managers viewed the break as an opportunity to prepare for the final stretch. Celtic's emphatic 6-2 win over St Mirren, although with four goals in extra-time, has raised questions about their consistency. The possibility of all three teams being in contention on the final day has sparked fan predictions on social media. If Celtic are out of the running, will their fans support Hearts against Rangers? The green and white might back the maroon and white to claim their first title in 40 years, adding another layer of intrigue to the season's conclusion.