Looking at the pattern, I notice the opponent has used scissors only once (round 6), and that was after playing paper. Since they just played paper in round 7, there's a chance they might follow the same pattern and play scissors. Additionally, the opponent has played paper in 2 of the last 3 rounds, suggesting they might switch strategies. With the current score at 2-3, I need to make strategic choices to catch up, and rock gives me protection against a potential scissors play while breaking the pattern of my recent losses.