Whether you are first on the ladder or eighth, each team going into the AFL Finals Series has at least one reason why they could win a premiership or a reason why they can't.
Each team has every reason to believe they can win it all from here, whether it is based on form, game style, or experience. Every finals team has its own strengths and weaknesses, and now it's a matter of who can utilise their strengths to their advantage while minimising their weaknesses.
Below is listed every team's biggest reason why they can or can't bring home the 2025 AFL premiership.
3. Brisbane Lions
Why
Reigning premiers
Well, they are the reigning premiers, and their best footy is the best in the comp.
The Lions have been cruising along nicely this season to secure a top-four spot. At some points, they had moments with their backs against the wall, but every time, they seemed to find a way to get over the line.
With stars across the field and now the battle-tested experience in September, the Lions have every right to be considered the favourite for the flag.
Why not
Injury list
The Lions haven't had the best run with injuries throughout the year, with six premiership players on the injury list heading into the finals. Defenders Jack Payne and Noah Answerth have already been ruled out for the year.
Lachie Neale and Jarrod Berry have been cleared to play in the first final, but Neale has missed the past three games with a quad injury, while Berry suffered a dislocated shoulder in round 23.
Tall forward Eric Hipwood is set to miss the first final but is expected to return for their second, whether that be a semi-final or preliminary final.
