Adam The God

There will be growing pains this year (last week, Freo). This will be a baptism of fire against the double premier, but if he does well, it'll expedite our development markedly. I'll back our development team in to prepare him and scaffold him this year. But the sooner (the better) we can see a settled backline of: AMW Turner XT Bowey xxxxPetty? Lever I think we are missing another kicker or two too. XL is filling the role this year and learning the defensive elements of the game, but we need a lethal kick back there. I want XL onto the wing ASAP, so if we can fill that need and allow XL to move further up the ground next year that'd be ideal. XT's speedy development could transform our back half though with his agility and offensive capabilities.

I actually thinking his kicking this year, for the most part, has been superb. Particularly, kicking inside 50, but in general play as well.

I disagree. Sure, the crowd might be down on what it would have been, but on-field it's all part of the journey and it won't be the only blip this year. Football isn't linear. Today wasn't a backward step. It was a paethic performance and King was thoroughly outcoached, but it doesn't detract from our three wins IMO. In fact, I'd view today as an important learning step for this group, including the coaches. Because this game plan as it stands right now and as our list stands right now, is very easy to counter. We're not the dominant stoppage force we once were, so when sides get on top there and mix this with ball retention (Hawthorn will do this against is too you'd think), the system and our list doesn't have an answer.

The board. That's who I'd put my money on.

I know you're a betting man but the odds were in our favour 20 minutes before the game according to the AFL app that I was reading as I walked into the ground and growing larger. Also, according to Google, we were favourites.

Fascinating. I need to watch more closely. I felt he'd really struggled this year.

And get in one more best 23.

Whenever I see this thread title, I just think of Patrick Warburton and Seinfeld.

He was a Bulldog growing up...

I don't think this year, no. Perhaps towards the end of the year, but more 2027-2028.

I'd rather play a more mobile back half. AMW Petty Howes Taylor Turner Bowey With Lever and Salem for support. But as with King's philosophy, he wants players to be able to play multiple positions. Blake could play a wing or half forward as well. Happy birthday, Blake. 🎉

Well, we were favourite in the betting market.

Yep, things are really shaping up in this department. I've viewed 2026 as a year to bed down the game plan, draft another two or three elite talents (potentially trading future picks) and playing a game style that attracts FAs and other trade targets for 2027 and 2028. So far so good. We'd be a very appealing prospect if we continue on our current trajectory. Need to get some bigger crowds as the year goes on too.

Bloody Tim Lamb, hey? 😜

We were favourites in the Carlton game too. I also disagree with thia sentiment going around that if we lose this week it will undo all of our work. We will have slip ups this year and it would put us at 3-2. I think most fans would have taken that going into this year. I certainly would have. That is not to say we should lose to Essendon...