Backlines can often do the heavy lifting in footy, especially if they're part of a side looking to turn their list around at the foot of the ladder.
With A-grade defenders a commodity in the AFL, and half-backs often going unnoticed whilst offering their best efforts, those that ply their trade down back hold an accountable role that can go unrewarded.
As made evident in last year's premiership run, a well-gelled rearguard can be the cornerstone in conjuring the right list worthy of planting their flag at the summit come the end of the season.
With the season nearing and each side looking to improve on the results of yesteryear, we profile each side's list of defenders and rank them against their league counterparts.
AFL BACKLINES RANKED 18-13
AFL BACKLINES RANKED 12-7
4. Greater Western Sydney
The Giants' defensive third is framed around their key-position towers in Nick Haynes and Sam Taylor, who offer a pairing that's destructive to just about any attacking avenue for opposing sides.
Haynes is capable of negating his direct opponent while also peeling off to aid his teammate, while Taylor is more than capable of winning his own ball while still meaning up on some of the game's best spearheads.
Veteran defender Phil Davis adds further support, while Jack Buckley and Connor Idun will continue to cut their teeth at AFL level.
At ground level, the Giants are bolstered by ball winners and efficient users given their brimming midfield brigade.
Star Lachie Whitfield will continue to share his role between half-back and midfield, while Harry Perryman will hold a similar role should he continue the trends of his previous season.
Isaac Cumming offers silver service out of defence, while former top draft selection Lachie Ash adds pace and precision from defence through midfield.
