Billy Slater’s Finals Verdict: Who Survives Week One?

Billy Slater and Peter Psaltis preview every game from the opening week of the 2026 NRL finals. Billy explains why Penrith remain the competition’s hardest team to beat, why the Roosters cannot be written off, how the Dolphins could silence Auckland and which players could decide the elimination final between the Sharks and Cowboys. The pair also reflect on Jai Arrow’s inspiring courage, Melbourne’s response to a difficult season and Darius Boyd’s appointment as Queensland coach before revealing their tips for all four finals. 00:00 Finals have arrived00:50 Penrith claim the minor premiership02:27 How to beat the Panthers04:05 Penrith’s extraordinary depth05:32 Liam Martin sets the standard06:48 Jai Arrow’s inspiring courage12:40 Are South Sydney vulnerable?13:52 Latrell Mitchell sends a finals warning16:16 Can Rround 27 form be trusted?19:32 Sharks enter the finals without momentum22:29 Melbourne’s season of adversity25:09 Sua Fa’alogo’s breakout season26:44 Why young players need time28:59 Will Tyrell Sloan return to the NRL?30:59 Canberra’s exciting young talent32:19 Cowboys searching for form34:03 Darius Boyd becomes Queensland coach38:32 Rabbitohs v Knights preview41:53 Warriors v Dolphins preview48:10 Sharks v Cowboys preview52:42 Panthers v Roosters preview54:34 Why Victor Radley is crucial57:14 Dylan Edwards v James Tedesco59:30 Billy tips Panthers v Roosters01:01:27 Penrith’s production line01:03:26 Billy and Salty tip every finalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.