A cut-throat league like the AFL demands excellence, and as a result, there's one winner and 17 losers.
But the reality is, not all clubs are expected to be pressing for a premiership, or even finals.
The introduction of the top 10 and the wildcard round has altered the forecasting of many teams.
And for that exact reason, each team's pass mark should vary based on a variety of factors.
Below, we have determined what each club should be striving for and what their fan base should be expecting in 2026...
Hawthorn
Pass mark: Grand Final
The next step in Hawthorn's progression is the grand final. From a semi-final loss, to a preliminary final defeat, the Hawks have developed astronomically under Sam Mitchell the past three years.
The brash and brave Hawks have never turned a blind eye in their successful history, and aren't short of expressing hubris, making them a much-disliked group.
But the brown and gold have done so for good reason, and Mitchell, just as he achieved as a player under Alastair Clarkson, could unlock a dynasty in waiting.
