AFL Finals Race Heats Up: Adelaide, Collingwood, and Brisbane Lions Among Contenders

The AFL 2025 season is heating up, with four home-and-away rounds remaining. Adelaide has emerged as a premiership favorite, while Collingwood, Geelong, and Brisbane Lions have one hand on the double chance. The Western Bulldogs face a crucial stretch to secure a top-eight spot. Each team's run home is analyzed, and a predicted top eight is provided.

The AFL 2025 season is in its final stretch with four home-and-away rounds remaining, and the race for the top eight is as intense as ever. Adelaide has emerged as the clear favorite to win the premiership, while teams like Collingwood, Geelong, and Brisbane Lions are vying for the double chance. The Western Bulldogs face a crucial period to secure their spot in the finals.

Adelaide Crows: Flag Favorites
Adelaide has been the standout team of the season, with seven wins from their last eight games. Their only loss in this period was a close defeat to Hawthorn by three points. The Crows have shown remarkable resilience and depth, with experienced recruits like Isaac Cumming and Alex Neal-Bullen making significant contributions. The team's dynamic forward line, led by Riley Thilthorpe and Izak Rankine, has been a key factor in their success. With a strong run home, Adelaide is poised to challenge for the flag [1].

Collingwood Magpies: Top-Two Contenders
Collingwood has shown signs of recovery after a recent stumble, with a victory over Richmond. They remain in contention for a top-two finish, but need to address personnel issues. The return of Jordan De Goey via the VFL could provide a significant boost. The Magpies face a crucial three-game stretch against fellow premiership contenders, with their performance in these games likely to determine their final position [1].

Geelong Cats: Soft Run Home
Geelong has the softest run home, with only the Swans posing a significant threat. Their demolition of North Melbourne in the past week highlights their form. The Cats have been consistent throughout the season, with Patrick Dangerfield and Jeremy Cameron playing pivotal roles. A top-two finish seems likely, but they must avoid any slip-ups in their remaining games [1].

Brisbane Lions: Double Chance in Sight
The Brisbane Lions have been vulnerable recently, with a heavy defeat to the Suns leaving them in a precarious position. However, they still have a chance to secure a top-four finish. Road games against the Magpies and Dockers will be pivotal. The Lions' dynamic duo, Patrick Dangerfield and Jeremy Cameron, will be crucial in their bid for the double chance [1].

Western Bulldogs: Crucial Stretch
The Western Bulldogs face a tough stretch to secure a top-eight spot. They need to find a way to beat a premiership favorite to prove their credentials. The team has struggled against top-eight teams, with a 1-8 win-loss record. Marcus Bontempelli and his team will need to perform well in their upcoming games to avoid elimination [1].

Predicted Top Eight
Based on the current form and run home, the predicted top eight is as follows:
1. Adelaide Crows
2. Collingwood Magpies
3. Geelong Cats
4. Brisbane Lions
5. Fremantle Dockers
6. Hawthorn Hawks
7. GWS Giants
8. Gold Coast Suns

The final rounds will determine the exact order, but these teams are currently in the best position to secure a spot in the finals.

References
[1] Jon Pierik. "Win streaks, pivotal games and extinguished dreams: who will make finals in the race for the top eight?" The Age. July 28, 2025. [https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/win-streaks-pivotal-games-and-extinguished-dreams-who-will-make-finals-in-the-race-for-the-top-eight-20250728-p5mi9l.html](https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/win-streaks-pivotal-games-and-extinguished-dreams-who-will-make-finals-in-the-race-for-the-top-eight-20250728-p5mi9l.html)