Brisbane's Zac Bailey's performance on Saturday night at the Gabba is just the tip of the iceberg, but it shows exactly what the forward-midfielder can do.

Bailey produced a career-best game, collecting 26 disposals and kicking five goals, which recorded a whopping 31.6 player ratings points per WheeloRatings.

The 25-year-old has flirted with superstar outings before, displaying glimpses of his tackle-breaking ways to punish the opposition.

And his coach couldn't wipe the smile off his face in the post-match address.

"Five goals, 26 possessions, 12 score involvements and a few score assists, that's a fair game," Lions coach Chris Fagan said with a grin.

ZAC BAILEY
Midfield
Brisbane
ROUND 17 STATS
26
Disposals
1
Tackles
2
Clearances

"He's capable of that. That was a pretty special game. He's a very talented footballer and he's still improving."

Bailey has struggled with consistency in 2025, rating over 20 player points on two other occasions for an average of 12.

The Lions retained second spot on the ladder after the 28-point victory over the Power, but face a relatively difficult trek towards the finals.

Clashes against the Western Bulldogs, Gold Coast (away), Collingwood (away) and Hawthorn to come, whilst Sydney, Fremantle and Carlton are sprinkled throughout in the remaining games.

Fagan, who led Brisbane to its stoic premiership victory in 2024 with an extraordinary run to September, said now's the time when the whips start cracking.

"This is the time that makes you or breaks you in terms of ladder position, we've learned that in the last few years.

"Now is the time to get going."