Darren Lockyer has labelled South Sydney as NRL premiership favourites and livewire hooker Damien Cook their X-factor.
Cook spearheaded the Rabbitohs' 30-20 win over Melbourne, restoring them to top spot before Friday's blockbuster clash with the Sydney Roosters.
The 27-year-old is amidst a career year which has seen him play a crucial role in NSW's breakthrough State of Origin series win and looks certain to inherit Cameron Smith's Australian No.9 jersey.
He showcased his blinding speed with a 45m solo try against the Storm in which he beat four defenders after racing out of dummy-half.
Former Brisbane, Queensland and Australian captain Lockyer said Cook had gone to another level since his debut Origin series and his speed was giving Anthony Seibold's side a dynamic which no other team could match.
"They've got everything covered and I think the big difference is Cook," Lockyer told the Nine Network's Sunday Footy Show.
"Melbourne are the best in the game at slowing the game down in defence, they control the ruck.
"But they couldn't handle the Rabbitohs the other night.
"That's what I think makes them the favourites from here."
The Rabbitohs could go a long way to sealing the minor premiership if they can defeat the Roosters at ANZ Stadium on Friday night.
The Storm are often criticised for their slow-down tactics and the ways which they influence the ruck.
After watching Cook cut them up through the middle, Parramatta legend Peter Sterling said he was one of the most influential players in the competition.
"Damien Cook gives South Sydney something that no other team has in regards to the No.9." Sterling said.
"There are some sharp dummy halves like Cameron McInnes but he (Cook) is blinding.
"He caught this Melbourne side out just with that speed alone on occasions.
"He gives them something, and certainly the (Sam, Tom and George) Burgess boys and (Angus) Crichton and (John) Sutton take him forward with quick play-the-balls, but he's a point of difference."
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