To win a premiership takes near perfection, a small crack in the game plan or a subtle pattern not ironed out will kill off any team's September assault.
Just one injury or inconsistency can completely derail a team's shot at winning.
In just two weeks, Geelong's premiership aspirations have been shot after losing superstars Jeremy Cameron and Max Holmes to substantial injuries.
Geelong has gone from a flag force with genuine premiership credentials, to a team battling for finals with teams that were an afterthought just weeks ago.
Through 18 rounds, each contender has displayed premiership characteristics as they stake their claims as the leagues best.
As we surge towards finals, teams will try to separate themselves from the rest, perfecting their style and priming their stars for the crusade ahead.
Of the current premiership contenders, none of them are perfect.
All of the contenders left have a flaw they must overcome, and if they do, will bring them much closer to premiership glory.
2. Sydney
Sitting decisively in the top two, Sydney has been a consistent force so far this year.
Contrary to their ladder position, many fans don't view the Swans as a strong flag contender as they have struggled against the best teams all season.
Sydney has played four major games this season that could have defined its premiership credentials: Hawthorn at the MCG, Geelong at GMBHA Stadium, Brisbane at the Gabba and Fremantle at Optus Stadium.
The Swans went 0-4 in these games, losing them all by more than 17 points.
Sydney is the best team in the competition at taking care of business against teams worse than it, but if the Swans want to make any real noise in September, they must beat the teams around them.
