The Crows' off-season period is paying dividends after they thumped Sydney in Round 12, with their two notable recruits both entering the Power Rankings for the first time.
A Docker is creeping back up the rankings while an All-Australian performance out west has solidified a star Cat's stranglehold on first place.
Who's making the most impact in their new colours? Welcome to the weekly rankings of the Recruit of the Year contenders for 2025, with Round 12 giving us plenty to consider.
1. Bailey Smith (-)
There wasn't a more ball dominant first half this weekend than what Bailey Smith put forth on Sunday night, racking up 25 disposals before the tag from Brady Hough, 17 of which came in the first quarter. Smith finished with 38 touches, his most since Round 10 2023, and generated eight inside 50s.
His hard-nosed, tough ball-winning ability combined with Max Holmes' running has helped them evolve into one of the game's strongest midfield pairings. If the pair can bring their A-game again next week against the Suns, who are visiting GMHBA Stadium for the first time since 2021, they'll give Geelong every chance at a top four finish later this season.
