It's building.

The tension, excitement, and nerves grow as each day goes by in anticipation of the 2023 Grand Final this Saturday.

The Brisbane Lions meet with an old enemy in Collingwood in a 2003 replay 20 years on. Of course, so much has changed since then; the players and the rules in particular, but one thing hasn't changed.

Both sides have that game-changing player that no matter what position they play, can flip the game on its head and change the direction of the momentum in literally seconds.

Looking back, 2003 had the likes of Nathan Buckley, Michael Voss, Simon Prestigiacomo, and Jason Akermanis, to name a few.

So, we took a look at the stats to see who the likely game-changers are for each side in the build-up to the final gameday of the year.

3. Moving the ball

Both teams have players with pin-point precision with their ball skill, which is vital for a team to be successful in the grand final. Players like this are usually the ones trusted to attempt the ambitious kicks or handballs to get the game moving.

Brisbane's game-changer: Keidean Coleman

Last week saw a game-changing performance from Coleman, ultimately setting up Brisbane to book their spot in the Grand Final. But performances like these have been more apparent for the Territory star. Since Daniel Rich stood himself down from selection, Coleman has become the team's new slingshot option with his lethal and smooth kicking action. This season, Coleman has gone at 72.3% efficiency with 68 inside 50s and has been involved in 73 scores. The risk-taker that he is will be a crucial part of the chain when the Lions transition from half-back.

Collingwood's game-changer: Jordan De Goey

Should we say more? His explosiveness singlehandedly put the Magpies in the Grand Final. With an efficiency of 70.2% for his disposals, 98 inside 50s, and 132 score involvements, it just feels like whenever he touches the ball, particularly in this final series, there will be a score as a result. Hovering around the contest will provide a challenge for the Lions to see if they can limit his likely vast influence on the game.