Backlines can often do the heavy lifting in footy, especially if they're part of a side looking to turn their list around at the foot of the ladder.
With A-grade defenders a commodity in the AFL, and half-backs often going unnoticed whilst offering their best efforts, those that ply their trade down back hold an accountable role that can go unrewarded.
As made evident in last year's premiership run, a well-gelled rearguard can be the cornerstone in conjuring the right list worthy of planting their flag at the summit come the end of the season.
With the season nearing and each side looking to improve on the results of yesteryear, we profile each side's list of defenders and rank them against their league counterparts.
In part two, we look at the sides ranked 12th down to 7th.
AFL BACKLINES RANKED 18-13
1. (12) Sydney
The major flaw for the Swans is their lack of key defensive depth, with emerging tall Tom McCartin the leading option down back for the Bloods.
McCartin flew under the radar last season as he continues to rise up the ranks, however the 22-year-old is in need of greater support, with Dane Rampe and Lewis Melican seen as the only other standout options to lockdown key-position opponents.
The Swans could consider SSP selection Paddy McCartin to pair with his brother in defence, while veteran Sam Reid and swingman Hayden McLean may also be rotated through the back third.
As far as smalls, the Swans boast great ball users and accumulators, led by two-time best and fairest winner Jake Lloyd. Surrounding him is the dead-eye disposal of Braeden Campbell, incumbent Harry Cunningham and versatile defender Robbie Fox, who all played significant roles in the Swans' rise of yesteryear.
However, with the likes of Campbell and Cunningham rotating through midfield, John Longmire's defence is further stretched.
