In another AFL season that has been filled with uncertainties and changes due to COVID, it is only fitting that fans can expect the unexpected.
After the bye rounds that concluded at the cessation of Round 14, the top eight looked pretty set.
Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs were flying, Geelong and Brisbane rounded out the top four, and few would think that Port Adelaide, Sydney, West Coast or Richmond would drop out of the eight come season's end given the talent that those teams possess and the form that they were in.
However, fast forward to the conclusion of Round 17, and the eight is anything but set.
West Coast and Richmond have both hit serious form slumps, and sides outside the eight such as Fremantle, GWS, St. Kilda and Essendon are all starting to hit their strides as they have all started to make a legitimate push for finals.
Check out below as we analyse the sides from 7th to 12th in terms of strength of schedule, form, and see who is the most likely two teams to round out the eight come finals time.
Richmond
The reigning premiers have their own destiny in their own hands.
Four weeks ago, everyone would've had them making the finals, but after four straight losses, it is looking unlikely.
Remaining schedule: [second easiest run home]
- Round 18 - Home vs Brisbane
- Round 19 - Away vs Geelong
- Round 20 - Away vs Fremantle
- Round 21 - Home vs North Melbourne
- Round 22 - Away vs GWS
- Round 23 - Home vs Hawthorn
Richmond's run home looked pretty good for them, but their recent form makes it hard for them. I'm still backing in the reigning premiers to overcome their form slump, but making the eight will be a tough ask now.
Verdict: Won't make finals
