Backlines are often the key to success in the AFL world, with their team-first attitude and actions regularly the difference-maker.
At Zero Hanger, we've undertaken the challenge of ordering each club's backline 18-1 to determine which team has the stingiest defence and greatest upside in what presents to be another cutthroat season of football.
TEAMS 18-13: Every AFL team's backline ranked: Part 1
In the second instalment of our backline rankings, we've revealed the clubs placed 12th through seventh.
5. (8th) Port Adelaide
The Power's defence from a list perspective looks relatively weak in comparison to teams already mentioned in this list, but their ruthless backline in 2024 highlights a formidable defensive structure.
Port Adelaide had the third-lowest points conceded per game in the home and away season, with lockdown small defenders able to apply fierce groundball pressure too, ranking eighth for spoils and second for tackles per game in 2024.
The loss of Dan Houston could be detrimental to the force they created in 2024 however, with the All-Australian averaging 5.1 rebound 50s and 3.5 tackles per game.
The Power do have solid options down back, with names such as Ryan Burton, Miles Bergman and Lachlan Jones reliable assets.
Logan Evans has the potential to forge a main spot in the side with Houston's exit, while Josh Sinn is likewise hyped up to have a breakout year. Kane Farrell could increase his level of responsibility too due to Houston's departure.
Aliir Aliir had a consistent 2024, while Brandon Zerk-Thatcher played every game. Esava Ratugolea is a nice depth option to have, although the former Cat has failed to prove consistency at the elite level.
Rory Atkins will have to fight for his spot as a veteran inclusion from Gold Coast but could provide a valuable ready-made backup option.
So while the Power's list isn't star-studded like the Suns, or poised to rapidly improve with a young list like the Crows, Port Adelaide have a well-ironed defensive game plan and solid experienced troopers that know how to play their role, and thus should be expected to be around the mark from a defensive point of view in 2025.
