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.
6. Melbourne
The big surprise of this season, Melbourne has made an extraordinary turnaround from a bottom six side to a top six side in just 12 months.
The Demons have built a fortress at the MCG this year, going a remarkable 9-0 at the venue.
But their greatest strength has turned into their greatest weakness with an 0-6 record in away games outside of Victoria.
Melbourne has failed every test away from home outside of Victoria which could pose a significant challenge as the top six takes shape.
Four of the current top six teams are interstate, meaning unless the Demons play home finals of their own, Hawthorn is the only other team hosting a final at the MCG.
Melbourne will play two more games outside of Victoria before finals, giving it a couple more chances to steal some wins on away turf and boost their confidence for a September surge.
