Round 23 delivered spectacular comebacks, major upsets and another dramatic shake-up of the NRL ladder.

Billy Slater and Peter Psaltis assess the race for the minor premiership, explain why Newcastle should concern every finals contender and consider whether Melbourne can still make a late charge for the top eight.

Billy breaks down the Warriors’ premiership credentials, Luke Metcalf’s impact at halfback and the emergence of Aaron Clark and Leka Halasima. He also examines how the Panthers can replace the injured Isaiah Yeo and why writing off the defending champions would be a serious mistake.

The team also discusses the Roosters’ rising stars, Cody Ramsey’s remarkable return, the Dolphins’ first finals appearance, Cody Walker’s extraordinary match-winning play and the biggest contests awaiting us in Round 24.

New episodes of The Billy Slater Podcast are available every Monday.

00:25 Billy’s NRL ladder observations
02:17 Can Melbourne still reach the finals?
03:54 Dragons upset the Sharks
07:07 Why one poor performance shouldn’t define a contender
09:00 Cowboys respond after their record defeat
11:25 The rise of Heilum Luki
13:34 Where should the Warriors host a home final?
17:22 Aaron Clark’s outstanding season
20:04 Luke Metcalf makes his statement
22:59 The Warriors’ young talent and winning culture
26:29 Isaiah Yeo’s injury and the impact on Penrith
29:40 Why Billy refuses to write off the Panthers
30:15 How Nathan Cleary’s role could change
32:18 Will Penrith rest players before the finals?
34:09 Roosters survive a thriller against the Bulldogs
37:00 Cody Ramsey’s remarkable return
39:45 Is Billy coaching seven NRL teams next year?
40:24 Dolphins secure their first finals appearance
43:44 The experience powering the Dolphins’ forward pack
47:35 Cody Walker’s incredible match-winning 40/20
49:24 Melbourne prospect Hayden Watson impresses
51:44 Panthers versus Roosters preview
52:59 Bulldogs versus Rabbitohs preview
53:45 Can Brisbane upset the Warriors?
55:05 Round 24 closing thoughts