1. GEELONG
Last week: 1
Were entitled to win against North Melbourne. The manner in which they did so was again a perfect example of their efficiency and defensive structure. For mine, the team they all have to beat.
Next up: GWS
2. MELBOURNE
Last week: 3
Filled up their boots in a performance which should give them plenty of confidence entering September. Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca continue to win huge numbers midfield.
Next up: West Coast
3. WESTERN BULLDOGS
Last week: 2
Ranking them third isn’t a knock. It’s just whether their best in the cut and thrust of the finals series will stand up. Still not sold 100 per cent on their defence.
Next up: Essendon
4. SYDNEY
Last week: 5
How can you not be impressed with how they are going about their business. It remains to be seen whether they will finish top four, but those above them know they’re coming.
Next up: St Kilda
5. PORT ADELAIDE
Last week: 4
Aren’t winning by big margins, but are doing what they have to. Can expect the players being filtered back into team from injury to get better and better.
Next up: Adelaide
6. BRISBANE
Last week: 4
Have officially lost a leg. With so much at stake, it’s hard to fathom how they can be late to the party for games against Gold Coast and Hawthorn.
Next up: Fremantle
7. WEST COAST
Last week: 7
Probably don’t deserve this spot. It’s just that those beneath them aren’t exactly taking their chances. The effort against Collingwood was their worst of the year. Shannon Hurn deserved better. Much better.
Next up: Melbourne
8. ESSENDON
Last week: 8
Hard to be disappointed if you are a Bombers fan. The intent is there. The future is bright. They’re just not getting the job done right here, right now.
Next up: Western Bulldogs
9. FREMANTLE
Last week: 12
Possession is nine tenths of the law. That is why Fremantle should be very bullish about playing finals. They sit in eighth despite an extensive injury list and young group. A successful season regardless.
Next up: Brisbane
10. GWS
Last week: 9
The losses to Gold Coast and Hawthorn are going to be costly if they don’t play finals. Still in the race, but must get on their bike soon.
Next up: Geelong
11. CARLTON
Last week: 13
Didn’t see the win over St Kilda coming. Remarkably, they remain in the top-eight mix. What would a finals appearance do for the future of David Teague?
Next up: Gold Coast
12. RICHMOND
Last week: 11
Coach Damien Hardwick and his players keep telling us they are up for the fight. Not sure about that. Their formline is not one of a finals-bound outfit.
Next up: North Melbourne
13. ST KILDA
Last week: 10
Poor against Carlton. Really poor. Once again, a Saints side featuring only one of Rowan Marshall and Paddy Ryder is extremely gettable.
Next up: Sydney
14. COLLINGWOOD
Last week: 15
Put on a clinic in the initial 60 minutes against a supposed finalist .The ball movement is refreshing and they remain stout behind the ball.
Next up: Hawthorn
15. HAWTHORN
Last week: 18
Wonder what Jeff Kennett was thinking of his decision to move on Alastair Clarkson during yesterday’s win over Brisbane?
Next up: Collingwood
16. NORTH MELBOURNE
Last week: 16
It is increasingly likely they will collect the wooden spoon. Their effort against Geelong without important players was better than an 18th-placed team.
Next up: Richmond
17. ADELAIDE
Last week: 17
Were just outclassed by the Western Bulldogs. There is nothing wrong with that. Just a further example of where this group is at.
Next up: Port Adelaide
18. GOLD COAST
Last week: 18
Another year. Another campaign that is limping to the line. They have kicked just five goals in their last six quarters and been outscored by 29 goals. Yes, that’s right 174 points. Think about that for a minute.
Next up: Carlton
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