We've finally hit the 2023 AFL Finals series, and the race for the flag is currently wide open.
Collingwood managed to win the minor premiership after a bumpy run home, but are they still the favourites? They'll meet fellow contender Melbourne in week one in a game that could ultimately decide who stands on the dais on the last Saturday of the month.
Or, will the Brisbane Lions find themselves in a grand final? They have been tantalisingly close on multiple occasions and after securing a home qualifying final this season they loom as a strong chance to go on and secure a home preliminary final.
Whilst it is harder for teams outside the top four to find themselves tasting premiership success, Carlton are riding a wave of belief into finals. Most of their players have never played in a final before but will be ready against the experienced Sydney Swans side who will be out to rectify the mistakes they made in last year's decider.
With such a wide open premiership race, we have broken down how every team performs; what to expect from them, their strengths, weaknesses, star player and a player who could break September wide open.
GWS
What to expect: After cementing their finals spot with a backs against the wall win against Carlton last weekend, GWS and their small, yet loyal, fanbase will be primed for a big game against St Kilda after an impressive win over Carlton showed just what they are capable of.
Strength and weakness: Their unpredictability proves as both a weakness and a strength. It seems you never know just what to expect with GWS. Adam Kingsley turned around what was looking to be a dire season for GWS, losing five of their first eight games including to bottom of the ladder West Coast and threatened to keep them out of the finals. However, wins against Geelong at GMHBA, Melbourne in Alice Springs and the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat prove that GWS are capable of beating anyone, anywhere.
Star player: Toby Greene
Toby Greene has had a big journey throughout his AFL career, but Wednesday night's appointment as All-Australian captain is an acknowledgment of his work ethic and star power, proving to everyone that he is a superstar of the game despite being at one of the smallest clubs. Greene can have a huge September, provided GWS win week one, and is one of the most important players for any club. A captain's performance will be needed each week with GWS more than likely going into each game the underdog but don't discount Greene propelling his team deep into the finals.
Breakout player: Jake Riccardi
The out-of-contract forward has already been receiving rival interests, and a big game would propel that interest even more. Riccardi has enjoyed a breakout season this year, kicking 30.15 and appearing in every game since Round 10. Even more impressively, Riccardi has scored goals in every game since Round 19 including a four-goal haul against Port Adelaide in Round 22, one of his best games for the season. Momentum is currently on his side, heading into the finals series with a three-goal bag against Carlton.
