Billy Slater and Peter Psaltis break down a massive Round 22 as the NRL finals race begins to take shape.

Billy analyses the Roosters’ record-breaking 82-point performance against the Cowboys and explains why Trent Robinson’s side may be timing its premiership run perfectly.

They also discuss the Warriors’ versatility and growing premiership credentials, Penrith’s powerful return to form, Nathan Cleary’s mastery of the game and the development of Panthers young gun Jaxon Edgar.

Billy reflects on Laurie Daley’s decision to step down as New South Wales coach, reveals the players he idolised growing up and explains why Reggie Cressbrook was one of his childhood favourites.

The boys examine the Broncos’ failed premiership defence, the controllable factors Brisbane got wrong and whether Michael Maguire should use the final five rounds to blood young players.

Plus, the Bulldogs continue their winning streak, Melbourne unveils another promising young halfback, Adam Doueihi responds after a difficult week and Billy previews the biggest matches of Round 23.

00:00 Welcome to the Billy Slater Podcast
00:30 The NRL finals race begins to separate
01:18 Roosters score a historic 82 points
04:06 What went wrong for the Cowboys?
05:53 Are the Roosters timing their run perfectly?
07:46 Warriors enter the top-two conversation
09:24 Why the Warriors are so difficult to contain
10:27 Can the Warriors win the premiership?
14:57 Laurie Daley steps down as Blues coach
16:33 Billy reflects on Laurie Daley’s playing career
18:17 The players Billy idolised growing up
20:35 Penrith overpower Canberra in Mudgee
23:06 Nathan Cleary’s mastery of rugby league
25:15 Panthers young gun Jackson Edgar impresses
27:15 Can the Raiders still make the finals?
29:41 Kalyn Ponga inspires the Newcastle Knights
33:31 Why Fletcher Sharpe is so dangerous
35:09 Brisbane’s premiership defence is officially over
37:44 The trait the Broncos have lost
39:29 Should Brisbane blood young players?
42:45 Bulldogs defeat an understrength Storm
45:12 Melbourne’s next generation emerges
48:17 Adam Doueihi responds after a difficult week
51:14 Round 23 preview
51:49 Can the Cowboys bounce back?
53:19 Roosters and Bulldogs renew an old rivalry
54:44 Final thoughts