The start of the 2023 AFL season is drawing closer and with it comes the second instalment of Zero Hanger's forward line rankings, revealing the 12-7 spots.
We've already named our 18-13 ranked forward lines, but now it's time to dive into the middle of the table as we reveal the next six best forward lines in the AFL.
SEE: PART I OF OUR FORWARD RANKINGS
5. (8th) Western Bulldogs
The Bulldogs are heading into 2023 with an intriguing forward line, with the addition of Rory Lobb into the mix leaving the Dogs with plenty of height inside 50.
Aaron Naughton enjoyed a stellar 2022 season, kicking 51 goals from 22 games, topping the Bulldogs' goalkicking tally by a margin of 15 majors.
The inclusion of Lobb, who kicked 36 goals last season, will be instrumental for Naughton's success this season, helping draw away big-bodied key defenders.
Young guns Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Sam Darcy will also cause trouble for any undersized backlines, standing at 197cm and 208cm respectively, though Darcy may find himself spending time down back too when needed.
There were plenty of questions about the forward line setup throughout the off-season, but the Bulldogs showed in their pre-season practice match win against North Melbourne that there is plenty of merit in their tactics. The tall quartet combined for ten goals in the 58-point win, with Naughton claiming four of those in a dominating appearance.
On the smaller side, Cody Weightman will continue to be valuable after his 36-goal haul in 2022, while the club will be hoping Jason Johannisen can overcome a calf issue in time for Round 1. Rhylee West will be hoping for more consistent game time after 14 matches in 2022.
The Dogs' new-look forward line is certainly one to watch this season should Luke Beveridge find the perfect balance with his tall brigade.
