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.
8. Hawthorn Hawks
Why
Style of football
They were one goal shy of a preliminary final in 2024, and even after finishing eighth, people see them as a dark horse to push for the premiership.
The way they play the game with their pressure and ball movement is proven to hold up well in the finals. They were only one goal away from upsetting the Power in last year's semi-final, and they have every right to believe they can pull off another remarkable run.
Why not
Midfield depth
The Hawks' midfield depth has been a major concern in their losses this season, especially when Will Day has been out. Day is arguably their best midfielder and has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Winning the contest is crucial for success in finals, and with other teams boasting more battle-ready soldiers in the middle of the park, this could be the reason the Hawks fail to win in September.
