Predicting the Round 1 schedule for the 2020 season

With the 2020 AFL home and away schedule expected to arrive late October/early November, we've had a bit of fun in predicting the round one fixture.

It's highly unlikely this will be the schedule, but these are the nine games which would make for great viewing come March 2020.

*all times AEDT

THURSDAY NIGHT

Richmond v Carlton | MCG 7:25pm

The classic season opener garners a lot more fanfare as we begin a new decade. It would mark the sixth consecutive meeting between the two clubs, and the Thursday night tradition looks like it will stay with Richmond as strong as they are and Carlton projected to rise.

All teams are on a level playing field come March, and you can expect Carlton to compete strongly with the defending premiers, as the Blues faithful await the return of Eddie Betts. The Tigers will also have plenty to be patient for, with Alex Rance expected to play for the first time since round one, 2019. If scheduled, this match has the potential of drawing in the biggest attendance for any season opener.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Collingwood vs Hawthorn | MCG 7:50pm

The Magpies commonly get placed on the Friday night fixture of the opening round, and they'll need to get through a new-look Hawks outfit if they want to get the 2020 season rolling. With plenty of action in the trade period yet again, the Hawthorn team could look completely different to the previous year. Brownlow winner Tom Mitchell will return for his first game since winning the prestigious award, and he has a decent track record against the black and white.

Jon Patton has arrived from West Sydney, while Sam Frost will be a welcomed inclusion with Grant Birchall departing, but Collingwood set this up for the perfect Friday night blockbuster whoever they play. An interesting fact, skipper Scott Pendlebury needs just 21 disposals to reach 8000 for his career, a milestone only eight others have achieved.

SATURDAY

Melbourne vs Port Adelaide | MCG 1.45pm

Remember this match last time? Ken Hinkley ordered his men to go after premier ruckman Max Gawn, and the intimidation factor paid off, as first gamers Connor Rozee, Zac Butters and Xavier Duursma advertised a bright future for the Power. Melbourne was coming off a prelim final loss, and in many ways, this game put the writing on the wall for what was an underwhelming season.

Things will change this time around. Port have lost some key position depth, while the Demons have added running weapons Adam Tomlinson and Ed Langdon, with a couple of top 10 picks to work with. There's plenty to like about this match-up.

Brisbane vs Gold Coast | Gabba 4:35pm

In years gone by, the Suns have been somewhat competitive to open their season campaigns. Starting the year with the Q-clash seems a good fit for two teams still finding their identity. Brisbane is looking to grow from last year, and a hot start is needed if they want to confirm themselves as a top-four side.

Gold Coast is the amusing one, many believe they're still a long way off but with the inclusion of Oakleigh duo Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson, along with some ready-made footballers, there's plenty of upside ahead of them in 2020. The Suns are attempting to build a better culture and on-field performance, so it will be interesting to see if they can compete with Brisbane, who finished the home and away season in second place.

West Coast vs Geelong | Optus Stadium 8:10pm

Now, this would be one of the hottest tickets of round one. Although Geelong don't carry any furore around the Tim Kelly returning home situation, you can bet there will be bragging rights and plenty of feeling in this one.

The Eagles achieved their only goal this trade period (and off-season) by securing the West Australian, who is quickly becoming one of the most damaging players in the game. However, Geelong found necessary replacements in the form of midfielder Jack Steven and veteran forward Josh Jenkins.

After a long summer without footy, it would be thrilling to see Dangerfield, Ablett and Selwood match-up with the likes of Shuey, Kelly and Gaff with plenty of All-Australian's spread across the ground.

Adelaide vs North Melbourne | Adelaide Oval 7:20pm

What would mark club stalwart Rory Sloane's 200th game with the Crows, both teams will be heavily scrutinised heading into this one. The Crows added a new head coach, along with a developing crop of youngsters and some high draft selections, there has been news of an in-house review down at West Lakes - and we'll have to wait until March to see the alterations play out.

North have successfully grouped together a talented crop of youngsters, but they will need time to develop together before becoming a threat to the elite-tier teams. Players like Tarryn Thomas, Luke Davies-Uniake and Jy Simpkin will need big seasons to assure future growth, and a win on the road will be huge for the confidence of Rhyce Shaw and his troops. Nick Larkey and Cam Zurhaar will be future stars, and Aiden Bonar should make an immediate impact.

SUNDAY

Essendon vs Sydney | MCG 1.15pm

These two clubs have a recent history of tight encounters, and this would be a great test for both sides. Holding onto Joe Daniher and Orazio Fantasia has Essendon fans hopeful for next season. The addition of Tom Cutler adds midfield grunt and a developing cast of Aaron Francis, Andrew McGrath and Darcy Parish show promise. Yet to mention Devon Smith returning, who in many ways is Essendon's most important player.

Although by March the focus will be on football and less on the drama that circulated Daniher, this match will be important and you can bet the fans will be involved in this one. Many predict another drop off by the Swans, but next season will see Lance Franklin edge closer to the illustrious 1000 career goal tally.

Greater Western Sydney vs Western Bulldogs | Giants Stadium 3:20pm

With the pain of last year's maiden Grand Final loss still lingering, the Giants would await the Bulldogs for one of the more exciting rivals of the last few years. With Callan Ward back, a convinced Coniglio and many stars entering their prime - the Giants' best team looks scary good.

On the flip side, the Dogs have built a formidable lineup with Josh Bruce and Alex Keath firming the spine. An Aaron Naughton/Bruce combo will be frightening for any backline. These teams deserve to face off twice in a season, so why not have them playing round one.

St Kilda vs Fremantle | Marvel Stadium 4:40pm

In what would be the final match of round one, Brad Hill comes against his old side in what would mark his first game with St Kilda and his 150th career game! Seems weird, but it would make for great viewing.

The Saints will field a completely different outfit to last season, including Dan Butler, Zak Jones, Paddy Ryder and Dougal Howard while top draft pick Max King will be ready to take hold of the league.