Overtime

The race for the finals last year was one of the closest and most competitive in recent history. The top 8 were one of the highest point-scoring in recent memory, with Hawthorn finishing the top 8 at 60 points, while the Sydney Swans, who were the minor premiers the year prior, only managed 68 points. Every match felt pivotal, with teams trading wins and ladder positions week after week. In the end, Lions stood tall for the second straight year, proving to the rest of the country, that the league still runs through Brisbane.

Can we expect to see much of the same again this year? Well, whilst I do not have a crystal ball, we can make a prediction based on what we already know. After one of the most active offseasons also in recent memory, I think the answer to that will be yes. Teams such as Brisbane traded for elite forward Oscar Allen and star ruckman (when uninjured) Sam Draper, the Swans acquired multi-Coleman medalist Charlie Curnow, and numerous other trades that have strengthened both the top contenders and mid-tier teams alike. It felt like trades like these were happening almost every day throughout the offseason, and for that reason, I think the competition will only be tougher this year. With teams constantly reshaping their lists and top-tier players moving across clubs, the margin for error has never been smaller.

That being said, lets jump into my predictions for this season.

Wooden Spoon – West Coast:

Unfortunately for West Coast fans, I don’t have too much optimism for their upcoming season. After a shocking preseason and losing key players such as former co-captain Oscar Allen, I don’t see them making huge improvements. That being said, I think there will be some steps taken towards escaping the dreaded bottom four. After picking first and third in the draft to go alongside star player Harley Reid, the Eagles at least have a promising foundation for the future. Young talent will likely be given plenty of opportunities this season, and while results may not come immediately, the focus will be on development and building a competitive list over the coming years. If those young players can begin to find their feet at the AFL level, West Coast fans may finally start to see a light at the end of the tunnel, but unfortunately, that light may have to wait at least another season.

Dark horse – St Kilda:

Who doesn’t love an underdog? After a huge offseason, the Saints have bolstered their already talented core by adding Tom De Koning and Rowan Marshall. Led by Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, they will be looking to make a statement this season. I believe they are strong enough to secure at least a top-10 position, but with the way their squad has been strengthened, they also have a realistic shot at cracking the top 6 which would be enough to avoid the uncertainty of the wildcard round and truly challenge the league’s elite.

Coleman Medalist – Logan Morris:

After a breakout season last year, kicking 53 goals and leading the Lions in goals, I believe the two-time premiership player will be able to build on that momentum and take his game to another level this season. With Brisbane continuing to develop one of the strongest midfields in the competition, the supply inside 50 should only improve, giving him even more opportunities to hit the scoreboard. If he can maintain his consistency and stay healthy throughout the year, there is no reason why he cannot push past the 60-goal mark and put himself right in the conversation for the Coleman Medal.

Brownlow Medalist – Nick Daicos

Nick Daicos, where do we even begin? One of the most talented players of our generation: a premiership player, multiple All-Australian, and a two-time Brownlow runner-up. For Daicos fans, I finally think this is his year to win it. With umpires now having greater access to match statistics and after his outstanding AFL Origin performance, it’s hard to look past him. His consistency, elite ball use, and ability to impact games week after week make him one of the most influential players in the competition, and if he maintains that level across the season, this could finally be the year he claims the Brownlow Medal.

Minor Premiers – Sydney Swans:

Two years removed from their last Grand Final appearance, the Swans suffered a premiership hangover the following season, significantly underperforming expectations and falling out of the top eight and finals contention. This season, however, I believe will be completely different. With the star addition of Charlie Curnow to an already stacked roster of experienced players, the Swans have the firepower and depth to bounce back in a big way. If they can rediscover the form that once took them to the Grand Final, I see no reason why Sydney can’t finish the season atop the ladder.

Premiers – Brisbane Lions:

I hate to be the bearer of bad news to AFL fans across the country, but I have strong reason to believe the Lions will complete their three-peat this year, the second in the club’s history and the second this decade. They boast one of the most talented young cores in the competition, supported by plenty of experienced veterans who know what it takes to win in September. With a squad built for both the present and the future, and the confidence that comes from deep finals runs, Brisbane look primed to dominate once again. Having already made three straight Grand Final appearances, their experience on the biggest stage could prove the decisive factor in securing another premiership.

Regardless of how this season plays out, I think most fans should have something to look forward to. With new stars emerging, blockbuster offseason moves, and several teams looking capable of making a deep finals run, the competition feels as open and exciting as ever. Whether your club is pushing for a premiership, fighting for a finals spot, or building for the future with young talent, this season promises plenty of drama, memorable moments, and storylines that will keep fans engaged right through to September.