With the 2023 SuperCoach, AFLFantasy & DreamTeam season officially over, it’s time to review the year in full, one club at a time. First up for our 2023 Fantasy Footy reviews is the Carlton Football Club.
For big chunks of 2023, Sam Docherty was a dominant defensive force for the fantasy community. After a patchy opening month and then missing a few weeks of footy, Sam returned in round seven and once again proved why so many coaches started him in AFLFantasy, SuperCoach & DreamTeam. From round nine until the season’s end, he posted nine AFLFantasy tons, three extra scores over 90 and nothing under 80. It was a similar picture of dominance with nine SuperCoach tons and four scores of 90+. He ended 2023 ranked as one-third in AFLFantasy amongst all defenders by average, going at 104.5 and eighth in SuperCoach with an average of 100.6
As the season went on, the Blues played Doc more consistently across the wing and through centre bounces, so much so that it won’t surprise me to see him eligible as a midfielder only to start the 2024 season.
Carlton provided us with only a few candidates under this category, although many started with Lachie Cowan; the defender did play the opening six games of the year. After that, he was quickly out of the Calrton team and our fantasy footy sides. Alex Cincotta became one of the most highly traded cash cows during the season after debuting in round six.
His DEF/MID status became hugely valuable and arguably more helpful for depth and coverage as he went on to play sixteen games and averaged 55.2 in SuperCoach and 48.1 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam. He generated $201,500 in SuperCoach, $202,000 in AFLFantasy and $271,600 in DreamTeam.
During the 50 most relevant in the preseason, we discussed the recent history of Brownlow Medal winners having a scoring hangover the following season. Patrick Cripps has become another ‘victim’ of the curse, dropping his average by 14 points per game to 88 in AFLFantasy and 97.5 in SuperCoach. Those averages are fine, but given what you paid for him in classic or positionally in draft formats, he probably let you down and didn’t quite work out how you’d hoped.
Perspective is everything in fantasy football. And when a player averages 94.6 in AFLFantasy and 103.2 in SuperCoach, for most players, that would be considered a successful season. That wasn’t the case for Sam Walsh. The former #1 pick showed flashes of brilliance after returning from an offseason injury; his first 5-6 weeks were sensational. But his scoring faded as the year went on.
This wasn’t just due to some role volatility but mostly due to his rebuilding his fitness base. The primary weapon in Sam’s football arsenal is his endurance and ability to cover the ground better than anyone. Having no preseason impacted him and, as a result, his fantasy output. But as we say most years, one year’s frustration is the coming season’s blessing.
Sam will come in between 10-15 points below his previous two seasons averages and will likely be highly hyped through the preseason. This is being further enhanced during the AFL Finals series, with him scoring back-to-back tons in the first two finals and being a significant reason for the Blues pushing deep into September. Plenty will be on him next year, and I’m super keen to be part of the ownership party!
Before rounds 6, 12 and 18, the gang at Champion Data add some new DPP into the game. After the round, the first list of names and positions will be released. Historically, players need at least 35% to be considered for a new position allocation and at least four games played. So let’s see which players are locked, close or have no chance of getting DPP.
Have no fear. Jayden Short’s DPP is here! Heading into the Friday night clash against Brisbane, he was tracking at 50% of the time in defence, according to Champion Data. His night ended early in the second quarter with a hamstring injury. He’ll likely miss the following three weeks as a minimum. The injury does have a silver lining. Given he’s already played enough games to be eligible for DPP, it means he can’t see a data change, so lock Jayden in as a backline buy.
Even though you can’t buy him when injured, he’s a genuine play upon his return. I mentioned the Tigers upcoming fixture last week when looking at some upgrade targets. Assuming he’s back in round 19, he’d come up against Hawthorn, Melbourne & Western Bulldogs. That’s a nice run of opponents, and Jayden is likely to have the highest three-round average of all defenders during this stretch.
Luke Shuey
Even if Luke Shuey gets DPP, trading into him will only be for some. It may not be for anyone, but the possible positional allocation could be in play. Despite the challenges of the Eagles availability, when Shuey has been playing, he’s spent more time playing off the ball and across the backline. This has been primarily to provide some support, experience and leadership to what, at times, has been an incredibly young and inexperienced defensive group.
Having to be injected back into the centre bounces last week to cover the absence of Tim Kelly might mean that the Eagles premiership hero might see a dint in his defensive half %. But to the naked eye, he’s a consideration to get a change of status. The only reason you are jumping on him should the DEF status arrive is that you believe he and the Eagles will try to stay in games longer by denying the opposition the ball by playing a more possession-heavy football game. If that happens, then there’s a world I could see some coaches chasing the pack of leaders and trading into him. It’s an AFLFantasy style trade where he’s priced under $700k but is coming off the back of two consecutive 100s.
Traditionally, players gaining MID status are some of the least relevant gains because they need to create a pathway to a higher scoring avenue within your 22. However, what the addition of midfield status does is create versatility and flexibility across your classic and draft sides. Over the past six weeks, we’ve used Jack in various roles, and it is linked to two key variables. First, the opposition matchup. Second, Jack Steele’s capacity to get around the ground and impact.
Over the past five weeks, we’ve seen Sinclair go from 0% attendance at a centre bounce and play exclusively half back to 70% CBA’s and everything in between. It will come down to his role and time in the position this week against Melbourne. Plenty will log in Sunday on DFS to see the Saints CBA data.
Nick Daicos
I’ll get to the DPP stuff in a second, but over a week ago, I attended the MCG to watch my Crows play the Magpies. Putting the result aside (sigh), I walked away from that game amazed at what Nick Daicos does, not just with the ball, but without. Have you ever wondered, ‘How does he get that much space?’ Or dared to utter that he’s just an ‘outside junk ball user.’ Then you have to get to a game to watch him play. His workrate off the ball, combined with his elite footy IQ and his teammates desire to include their best ball user, combines for the reasons why he gets so much footy the way and where he does.
Since round eleven, there’s been a clear shift to play Nick higher up the ground. In the ten games prior, he’d only attended two games over 40%; since then, he hasn’t attended under 40% and has a season-high 81% against the Crows at the G. Like all players in the mix gaining MID, it shouldn’t add to your scoring profile. Still, it might save you a trade-in classic or a player delisting in your draft squad later in the year.
Dan Houston
How good was that kick after the siren?! Amazing. OK, not that I have officially annoyed the entire Essendon fan base; let’s discuss Dan Houston. The Port Adelaide halfback flanker and his drive and daring use of the ball are one of the keys behind their season form. Dan’s still seeing plenty of time across the back half, but Port and trying to get his elite ball use higher up the ground.
Looking at CBA data will tell you nothing, as Houston is being used more along the wing than at centre bounces. Between 2021-2022 Dan averaged just three inside ’50s, but in 2023 it’s up to five per game. He’s not certain to gain it, but it could provide some helpful squad versatility for his owners in classic and draft over the coming months.
Sam Docherty
Nobody should be surprised to see Sam Docherty‘s name in the DPP conversation. As the season has progressed, the reliable Blues defender has gradually seen an increase in his midfield presence. According to champion data, he’s currently spending 42% of his time in the midfield, and barring a heavy game this weekend against Freo, I expect him to be a DEF/MID within the week.
Lock this one up and throw away the key. That was my statement regarding Sam Walsh at his FWD status addition heading into round 12. Sadly, in the critical round 11 matchup, Michael Voss played him 57% as a centre bounce midfielder and the remainder as a wingman, effectively killing the fantasy footy community’s dream of him as a MID/FWD. However, he didn’t attend over 40% of CBAs in the next two weeks. He would’ve gained MID/FWD if that had happened in round eleven. All of a sudden, I got a small glimpse at the heartbreak following Carlton has created its supporters.
Heading into his round 16 matchups, Champion Data had him allocated as playing 36.8% FWD. Post Hawthorn match, it moved to 35%; that’s right on the cutoff line. Safe to say his DPP hopes will all be linked to how he plays Sunday afternoon against Fremantle.
Max Gawn
The possible gain of forward status from either Max Gawn or Brodie Grundy was telegraphed all preseason due to the Demons two headed ruck monsters. To date, Max has become the one that Melbourne has used more forward, with Brodie taking the lead ruck role. Currently, the Demons skipper is sitting right on the 34% threshold. If Gawn can tip this percentage every so marginally for one more week will get Gawn as an RUC/FWD. Dear Simon Goodwin, you play St Kilda this week; you must stretch the defence and let Big Max do this.
This DPP could take on additional significance in round 16; Darcy Cameron was unpredictably given a weird role, resulting in his season-low score. With many trusting in ‘DC’ to get them through the year for coverage and squad depth, Max’s DPP gain looms as a potential ‘upgrade’ on those using a cover RUC/FWD DPP strategy.
Deven Robertson
Over the past month on our podcasts, fellow co-founder Rids has been one of the few voices in the community championing the importance of bench hygiene over the year’s final months. In a rush to ‘complete’ your teams, many teams have done it at the cost of the bench depth, both in playable options and cash generation. Why am I mentioning it here? Because Deven Robertson is highly likely to gain FWD status and create not just a handy loop between MID/FWD but a stronger bench coverage in the forward line.
The Lions youngster is fighting the fight to get more midfield time, but at the moment is plying his trade, creating pressure and presence floating between the midfield and forward lines. The likely addition of Dev means coaches currently running with the likes of Lohmann, Roberts, Drury, Davey etc., will finally get some small reprieve.
Before rounds 6, 12 and 18, the gang at Champion Data add some new DPP into the game. After the round, the first list of names and positions will be released. Historically, players need at least 35% to be considered for a new position allocation and at least four games played. So let’s see which players are locked, close or have no chance of getting DPP.
If you’ve tracked the publicly available data hoping to gain insights on future DPPs, seeing Jayden Short attending 67% of centre bounces last weekend isn’t good news. Over a week, he’s gone from someone I would’ve branded as ‘safe’ to gaining DEF status, as now to someone on the borderline. Currently sitting at 34% as a defender, he’s agonisingly close to the trigger of 35% to get the positional allocation. He might just miss out if we have another match like this against Port Adelaide on Sunday afternoon. Sadly, the injury to Jacob Hopper appears to have affected a midfield rotation shuffle for Richmond, and Short has seen a spike. Watch his role on Sunday with interest. He’s a chance for DEF/MID status, but no certainty.
There was a period a few weeks ago when the Sydney Co-Captain was on track to gain defensive status. He was playing down back to cover the injury gaps to Dane Rampe and the McCartin brothers. While the chance was small after playing a heavy midfield role in round eight, any hope was dashed after suffering a calf injury early in round nine against the Dockers. So scrap him from the list. He won’t be getting DEF status heading into round twelve. And given the length of injury layoff he won’t get a positional gain in 2023.
When the 2023 season concludes, and you review the year in hindsight, many will realise that having Dylan Williams on your side will have proven to be vitally important. And that’s for more than just his cash generation, as good as it’s been. Rather the forward has redeveloped himself and his game to become a central part of Port Adelaide’s back six. As a result, I’ve marked him down as a certainty to pick up DEF status and become a DEF/FWD. This will become crucial for us during the multi-byes and allow remarkable squad versatility until it’s time to trade him out at round fifteen.
Traditionally, players gaining MID status are some of the least relevant gains because they need to create a pathway to a higher scoring avenue within your 22. However, what the addition of midfield status does is create versatility and flexibility across your classic and draft sides.
Jack Sinclair has had an increasing presence at centre bounces for St Kilda. Impressively he’s getting enough time across half-back to pick up some of those uncontested possessions and marks and keep his scoring in the top tier of our available defenders. Over the past five weeks, his attendance varying from just over 20% right up towards over 60%. To gain midfield status, he’ll need a game that’s pushing the 50% of midfield time, he’s still determining, but he’s in the conversation. If he does get it, this, alongside his price post-bye, making him ripe for the picking, should see his ownership skyrocket heading into round thirteen.
Cards on the table, I’m a Crows supporter. And I thought Chayce Jones was headed for the trade table or, even worse, a delisting at the end of 2023. Sadly, beyond his first dozen games, he’d been unable to showcase the potential that made him a top-ten draft selection. That’s all changed! What he’s been able to do over the start of this season has given him a career revival.
The former lockdown defender has found a home across the opposite wing to Lachie Sholl, where his toughness and gut running is crucial to the Crows ball movement. His value to fantasy coaches is with his defender status, but especially in drafts, the DEF/MID status could create some positional versatility, especially if you play through the bye rounds.
Champion Data are the team behind the scenes that determine these positions. They’ve stated that a player’s position at centre bounces is a key factor in positional allocation. Over the past four weeks, Jack Stringer has attended 80%, 55%, 38% & 88% of centre bounces. As a result, one more game in this data territory should mean he gains MID/FWD status. Much like Jones above, his value is in drafts as a forward. However, the DPP could help get players on the field if your draft league plays through the byes.
The number one defender in the game by average & points has seen incremental growth in time in the midfield over the past five weeks. Nick Daicos has attended a variation of centre bounces from 17% to 63%. Like Sinclair, he’ll need a heavy midfield game this weekend to get DEF/MID status, and while it’s unlikely, if we see a midfield-heavy game as he did against the Crows (63%), it might just tip him into the threshold to get it.
Any DPP gain can add flexibility and versatility, and with the byes starting next week, should he (or anyone else) gain a position, it could unlock some moves for your squad.
Sometimes, as you head into the round ahead of the DPP movements, the data is overwhelmingly compelling, and the position status is guaranteed. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case with Christian Petracca. He’s close, but he will need a fair share of time starting inside forward fifty this weekend to guarantee the status allocation. CP5 has always had a level of time forward, but this year the split is tantalizingly close to him returning to our forward lines.
During the preseason series of the 50 most relevant, I flagged the potential of him gaining forward status. And it’s a reminder for us again that in our starting squad and early season trading cadence, we need to create space for this level of elite scoring that can become part of the game. Should this MID/FWD status land, between him and a few other gains, we might see a complete revolution of what is deemed the ‘top six’ forward for the 2023 season.
With the uncertainty around Clayton Oliver playing this week (and beyond), I’m not sold; we’ll get the heavy-forward time game needed for this DPP to pop.
Lock this one up and throw away the key. This time next week, you’ll be able to select Sam Walsh as a forward. Since his return from injury, he’s been sensational, regularly posting large tons seemingly at will across all formats. The primary causation for the move has been to ease him back into the rigours of AFL.
Regardless of the causation, the positive outcome is that he could pick up forward status. He’s currently on the borderline of it, but as long as Michael Voss doesn’t release him back into a heavy midfield (like last week) role, he should pick up MID/FWD status.
The huge upside with him is that regardless of his future midfield/forward split, he’s shown his scoring is unaffected. So when you combine the current trend and his historical pedigree, we might be about to receive the new top forward by an average of 2023. While the upside is you’ll get a top-tier premium midfield in the forward line; the challenge will be finding the cash to land him.
Much like his teammate in Christian Petracca, the possible gain of forward status from either Max Gawn or Brodie Grundy was telegraphed all preseason due to the Demons two headed ruck monsters. To date, Max has become the one that Melbourne has used more forward, with Brodie taking the lead ruck role. Currently, the Demons skipper is sitting right on the 35% threshold. If Gawn can hold this percentage for one more week will get Gawn as an RUC/FWD.
His addition could be an absolute game-changer for multiple reasons. First, an early-season injury has impacted his price point to insanely low space. His round 14 bye round for him means you can maximise him through the rucks in the byes alongside any combination of Rowan Marshall, Tim English or Sean Darcy you have. Third, his potential DPP flexibility could open up loopholes and depth coverage without having to make trades. And lastly, his non-injury-affected average is 93 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 102 in SuperCoach. All in all, if Gawn gains it, this could be the biggest addition of the year!
One week can make a significant difference. This time last week, I had Jackson Macrae as a 50/50 split of gaining MID/FWD status or missing it. After his win against the Crows on the weekend, I’ve got him heading north of 75% confidence picking up forward status. What’s been the cause of the growth? Data! In the period of one round, he’s gone from 35% as a forward upwards to 40%, according to the Herald Sun. Much like others on this list, his pending position status will be determined entirely on his role in the Bulldogs midfield this weekend.
Over the past few seasons since DPP gains have become an evolution, we’ve often seen high-end midfield talent gain FWD or DEF status as the clubs look to build their bodies and fitness to handle the rigours of AFL football. Players like North Melbourne’s Tom Powell or Hawthorn’s Connor MacDonald have had this happen over the journey. This isn’t and won’t be the case with Will Ashcroft. He’s spent some time as a forward, but he’s been used most of his game as a wingman and a centre-bounce midfielder. He’s zero chance of getting an additional position. Sorry to burst the bubble.
Two weeks ago, I was growing in confidence that we’d see Dion Prestia pick up MID/FWD status. The Tigers premiership midfielder had been one of the pieces that the coaching staff had used to create room for Jacob Hopper and Tim Taranto to become the primary two midfielders at centre bounces. While the possible gain wouldn’t have added classic coaches, it sure would’ve recouped some of the loss of draft capital for coaches who play draft. Instead, due to this forward time increase, his scoring declined.
However, due to an injury to Jacob Hopper, I suspect the trend of last weekend will continue when his CBA’s start to return to normal. As much as I’d love to give some hope to owners, I don’t think it’s coming. Barring a drastic turn of events this weekend, he’ll maintain his pure midfield status.
As we enter a new AFL season, existing keeper league coaches are entrenched in list management decisions. The trade decisions and delisting discussions have kept coaches busy over the summer. However, some keeper leagues are a brand new and exciting format of fantasy footy, and coaches have some significant decisions with the coveted first pick in the draft. Do they draft who’s dominating now? Invest in some potential future stars? Or somewhere in between? Drafting philosophies of keepers is something we’ll unpack over the preseason. But for now, here are the players I believe are in the mix for the number one pick for a brand-new keeper league.
Sam Walsh is a genuine candidate for pick-one in a keeper league, even with off-season back surgery. The positive is that you will no longer have to pay the price for him there. Why? Simple, because you’re not just picking him for the 2023 season in isolation.
Over his first four seasons of AFL, he’s missed just two matches but has delivered seasonal averages of 92.3, 96.6 (adjusted), 108.9 & 103.3. To have achieved it before he was 23 is absurd. Walsh might never make it to the territory of the 115+ seasonal average, but he’s one of the safest 105 midfielders for the next eight seasons.
Had Walsh not had a stalled preseason and potentially missed the first few rounds of the season due to an injury, he’d be locked for a top-three selection. The upside here is people might be able to get him in the second round if people baulk at the few games he’ll miss.
From the moment we saw Nick Daicos play at the elite level, we knew that the scoring capacity we’d seen junior level would eventually translate into AFL.
Last year he scored seven tons, three of them over 115, including his career-high 147 against the Crows. To go with those tons was five additional 80+. On top of these, he had six more scores over 80. Often first-year players see a scoring slide as the season goes along. However, that wasn’t the case for Daicos. In his first eleven games, he averaged 80 & in his final eleven games, he averaged 93.6.
Eventually, Nick will move into the midfield. But I expect his movement to be more gradual this year. The arrival of Tom Mitchell adds further depth to that midfield. Daicos became the general of that backline alongside Darcy Moore. For what the Pies might gain in the midfield by moving him up the ground more, they could lose just as much in their ball movement rebounding out of defence.
Regardless, his proven scoring output, elite junior numbers, and age make him a highly valuable acquisition for keepers.
Clayton Oliver might never have a season where he’s the highest-averaging player in keepers. But that’s not why he should be in contention for the #1 pick. Instead, it’s his durability and consistency that make him so appealing.
Last year he scored a ton in 81% of matches. That’s seventeen triple-digit games, with seven ticking over the 120 markers. It included 136, 139, 146 & 151. Alongside this, he had two additional scores over 90, and just once all year did his scoring drop below 80 (68.) His average of 112.5 was the second highest in the format, with only Rory Laird going higher, and he finished seventh for total points. He was only 110 points from coming first. Had he played every game and scored an average, you’d be talking about Oliver holding the #1 points mantle.
Unbelievably he’s still only 25, so while he might not be the youngest on this list, he’s still got plenty of premier scoring over the next 5-6 seasons. After six consecutive seasons of averaging 100+ and coming off a career season, you’ll feel safe as houses if you land Clarry.
The love for Andy Brayshaw in keeper leagues is obvious. This kid is already a star and arguably will only get better. He scored thirteen tons across the 2022 season; nine went over 120, and six were above 130. It featured 141, 144 & 181 as his three highest scores. Alongside this high volume and frequency of tons was a further four scores between 90-99, and his scoring dipped below 80 in just two matches all year. By the year’s conclusion, he had the third-highest average going at 112.3, and was ranked number one for points! A superb achievement.
2022 isn’t just an isolated one good season, he’s been building his scoring over the past three seasons, and in 2021 he gave you his first season where he averaged 100+ across all formats. During the 2021 season, he scored thirteen tons; five were above 120 and two higher than 135, including his best of 156. In addition, he had three more scores between 90-99. That’s 80% of his 90 or above scores last year. From a scoring basement, he had three scores under 70. All of these were when he copped a heavy tag. Closing out the season, he averaged 104.2
What makes Brayshaw such a good player is he scores in every column. He’s not dependent on just possessions or tackles to score well. Additionally, he has an elite workrate and endurance. This combination ensures he’s always in the game, even when the tags come. By the end of 2023, he’ll still be 23 and has eight years of topline performances. You can’t go wrong picking Brayshaw.
Bailey Smith flew out of the blocks for keeper coaches last season with a 154 against the reigning premiers, Melbourne. By the time the 2022 season was done, he’d scored eleven tons from sixteen matches, including 131, 147 & the already mentioned 154. He also had two additional scores of 90+ and only fell under the 90 mark in just three games. In 81% of games last year, he scored 92 or above.
It was what he did between rounds 1-10, where he averaged 118.4, that has keeper coaches the most excited. At just 22 with scoring potential like that, he’s already got the capacity to be one of the best premium picks in the game. Throw in that he’s got the opportunity to take on a greater inside midfielder role with the departure of Josh Dunkley, and it’s seemingly all upside.
Last year Bailey gained forward status, and if you played using AFLFantasy or Sportdeck as your drafting platform, you got an absolute bonus getting a guy with top-eight midfield potential. You might get lucky and see it again in 2023 or another year.
Not many players have the proven scoring of being able to go back to back in averaging 110 or higher. Callum Mills is one of those players. At 25 years of age
Last year he was exceptional. His average of 111 was the fourth highest in the format. Higher than Touk Miller, Jack Steele and Zach Merrett. While he ranked second overall for total points. He was a mere 30 points off dethroning Andrew Brayshaw. He scored fourteen tons over the season, seven over 120, five over 130 and his two top scores of the season were 156 & 162. Alongside this elite, scoring was a phenomenal basement with just three scores under 80 all season and just one under 75.
This was done coming off the back of 2021, where he also averaged over 110. if he can hold his role as a primary centre-bounce midfielder, then Mills has shown the scoring potential to be the best player in the game.
One of the key things I always look for when picking early in keeper leagues isn’t just for players with a high ceiling or a low-scoring floor. I am looking for someone who has the capacity for both. This is the appeal with Jack Steele. Jack isn’t dependent on a high volume of possessions or even marks to score well. Instead, his reliable basement of tackles provides the framework for his strong weekly scores.
Despite an injury setback last year, Steele’s overall season performance was still strong. He scored fourteen tons four his eighteen games. That was a ton in 77.7% of matches last year. Additionally, he delivered five scores over 120, including 121, 124, 130, 139 & 154. Alongside these tons were two additional scores of 90+, and in just two matches, did his scoring fails to get above that 90 marker. He finished the season with an average of 110.4, leaving him ranked as the fifth-best player in the game.
It’s more of a ‘now’ play, given Steele is 27 years old, but remember, a premiership in the first two seasons of a keeper league still counts. Don’t get so infatuated with ‘future’ success when you can still have it now.
In the vein of Steele above, the selection of Touk Miller with your first pick is placing your keeper side with the focus of being in premiership contention from the leagues commencement.
In 2022 he averaged 109.8, comprising fifteen tons and nine scores over 120. They include 132, 133, 134, 140 & 147. Alongside this are three additional scores of 90+, and only once last season did he drop his scoring below 80. As a result, he ended the season with the seventh-best average in the entire format. And speaking of ending the season over the final ten games, he went at an average of 112.
In 2021, the potential of Touk was fulfilled. He ranked first by average in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and third for total points. Good for a guy that missed a match. He scored seventeen tons; thirteen were above 120, while a monster six were over 140. His season in SuperCoach was arguably even better. He scored eighteen tons from his twenty-one matches; an insane thirteen were above 120, ten over 130 and seven scores of 140+. He was one of the most dependable VC/C options in 2021. He had sixteen consecutive tons to end the year and was ranked sixth for total points.
If you believe Touk will score closer to what he did in 2021 and the back half of 2022, then he needs to be in consideration for the top pick of a keeper league. If you think he’ll hold his scoring, let alone regress, he’s someone to look at either later in the first round or hope he gets back to you on the turn.
Josh Dunkley
Only two players in this top ten list have position eligibility other than an exclusive midfield. One is Nick Daicos, and the other is Josh Dunkley. Throughout the preseason, I’ve advocated for Dunks to be the #1 guy picked in seasonal drafts. However, given his MID/FWD status will only last for this year, I can understand the sentiment behind picking him at one for a keeper league.
Last season he scored eighteen tons. That’s four games all year that he didn’t hit triple digits. Six of those tons were 120 or higher, including five over 130. He had just two scores below 80 all year on his way to averaging 108.7. He ranked eighth for averages and sixth for points
Josh should get a 65% MID-FWD, but he doesn’t have to be that high to be a top score. What’s great about Dunkley is he can skip bulk CBAs to score well anyway. For example, in round seven against Essendon last year, he attended only 23% of centre bounces but still posted a 130+ score across the formats. Two weeks later, he scored over 110 with just 24% CBAs, and a further two weeks beyond that, he scored over 135 and attended just 32% of centre bounces.
Choosing Dunkley is a ‘now’ pick, not because of his age, but because you’re valuing his positional allocation that might not be there in coming seasons.
KEEPER RANKINGS?
During the offseason, Kane & I ranked the top 50 players for keeper leagues into eight different tiers. For just a couple of dollars a month, you can access these podcasts & a ton of other great content.
From day one in the AFL, Sam Walsh has demonstrated the abilities that make him one of the best midfielders in the game. Thankfully for us fantasy footy coaches, these abilities translate into being one of the best premium players to own. After delivering coaches a top ten season in 2021, Walsh has set his sights on being the top player in the game, and I believe he can do it.
PLAYER PROFILE
Name: Sam Walsh Age: 21 Club: Carlton Blues Position: Midfield
2021 Highest Score: 155 Vs Collingwood (AFLFantasy) 193 Vs Collingwood (SuperCoach)
Career Highest Score: 155 Vs Collingwood | AFLFantasy (2021) 193 Vs Collingwood | SuperCoach (2021)
From day one of Sam Walsh’s AFL career, he’s displayed why’s he’s been touted as one of the safest 300 game players ever. Walsh is the total package; he’s a tough customer inside stoppages, a strong runner in space, a high footy IQ, and one of the hardest workers both on and off the field.
His debut AFL season is still the greatest ever put together by a first-year cash cow. In 2019 he finished the season averaging 93, scored 7 tons, had nine extra scores over 80 & only dipped his scoring under 70 in just two matches.
SuperCoach performances from Sam were equally as impressive as he ended the year averaging 87. It consisted of 6 tons, eight additional scores above 80 & just three times scored less than 70. His 2020 years was a tale of two halves, but in his final eight matches of the year, he scored in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam 83, 95, 67, 88, 96, 114, 95 & 77; averaging an 89 (adjusted 111.) While for SuperCoach he posted 114, 123, 98, 113, 132, 161, 84 & 119 averaging a total 118.
So it was no surprise to anyone to see Sam Walsh establish himself as one of the top-end midfield premiums last year. He was ranked sixth on the league for handbells per game, seventh for effective disposals, tenth for uncontested possessions and nineteenth for score involvements per game. Walsh is ranked elite for disposals, score involvements, marks and uncontested possessions.
From an AFLFantasy/DreamTeam perspective, he joined the premium midfielder status, finishing tenth for total points in these formats. His year consisted of sixteen tons, eight over 120 and two 130+ including his career-high 155. By the season’s closing, his average of 108.9 has him ranked twelfth in the competition and with stronger averages than popular premiums like Clayton Oliver and Marcus Bontempelli.
Walsh’s SuperCoach season was even stronger. He scored fifteen tons, eleven of them were over 120, and four monster scores of 140 or above, including his PB of 193. He’s currently ranked ninth for total SuperCoach points, more than Zach Merrett, Rory Laird and Christian Petracca. While by averages, he’s ranked tenth.
On top of this scoring trend, he’s got immaculate durability. Since his round one debut in 2019, he’s still yet to miss a game of footy. Honestly, Walsh has had the perfect start to his football career, and the good news is he’s still got plenty of natural improvement left within him.
Everything points towards Sam Walsh as one of the best fantasy footballers in the game. During the offseason, fellow Coaches, Panelist Kane & I created a list of the top 50 keeper league plater prospects, which as a patreon, you can claim here. Without giving away where we ranked him, it’s safe to say it’s pretty high on the list. The reason being is he’s just elite at almost every possible avenue, and with the recent offseason additions at Carlton, I’m convinced that will only further aid him.
The addition of George Hewett in the midfield core will allow Walsh to play an even more attacking brand of footy. At Sydney, Hewett was at his best as a defensive-minded midfielder. At the same time, Adam Cerra will add further outside class and polish to support him. And finally, if Patrick Cripps can get his body right, we know just how strong he is as a contested player will share the load at the stoppage. These three play secondary support roles behind Walsh will thrive and ultimately live up to his potential.
While the trend of scoring is heading in a positive trajectory, with it usually comes increased attention from opposition teams and the dreaded taggers. Last year, the tag went to and had a significant impact on his output on a few occasions. In round fourteen against GWS, he was held to 20 possessions and scored an AFLFntasy/DreamTeam 55, while it was 71 in SuperCoach. A month later, against North Melbourne, he scored a 72 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 81 in SuperCoach. As concerning as some of these games might be, he also had just as many games that he got tagged, worked his way through it and scored a triple-digit score.
Working the way through a tag and still scoring consistently is the only fathomable concern coaches can make around him. It’s a challenge all our other favourite uber premiums have had to work through. But, based on what he’s done over the trend of his AFL career plus his elite endurance and workrate, I’m very confident he’ll navigate this final challenge of his game.
How much higher can he go? There’s not much further he can go. But if there’s anywhere, statistically, the best avenue might be tied to how well his Blues go this year. In Carlton’s eight wins last year, he averaged 132 in SuperCoach & 119.9 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam.
To start with, Walsh means his a weekly VC/C consideration in your starting team. If you don’t have the confidence he can be a captaincy option most weeks for you, then ultimately, you have your answer about if you should start or target him as an upgrade. I see him as a safe as houses VC/C and one of the safest top tier midfielders in 2022.
DRAFT DECISION
As good as Sam Walsh is, I don’t believe you’ll need to fork out a first-round selection on him on draft day. He will go in many leagues second rounds. Either as an M1 or M2, depending on if a coach is loading the midfield early or picking off the top end options in the alternate lines.
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It’s here, MJ and Kane reveal who they believe are the marquee players to own in a keeper league. Here’s why they are the best of the best!
Sam Walsh
KANE
What a player Sam Walsh has been just three years into his career. He’s yet to miss a game and already posted averages of 92, 97 and a brilliant 109. Amazingly Walsh is 13th for total points across the last three years which is mental when you consider he’s just 21 years of age. Clearly, Walsh’s advantage over Steele and Macrae is his age. He’s five and six years younger than them respectively. To get what is likely a 110 average across the next 10 years is just insane and something I couldn’t turn down. His score build is phenomenally well-rounded. He averaged 30 disposals, six marks, 4.5 tackles and 0.5 goals. There’s nothing glaring missing from his game so it’s just going to be a slight increase across the board that takes him to new levels. Don’t overthink it, just pick Walsh and enjoy the spoils for the next decade.
MJ
In the next two seasons will Sam Walsh score the most points? Possibly. But in a keeper league, your not just thinking about the next two seasons. Rather, you should be thinking about the decade ahead. During this edition of the top 50 keepers, you’ve heard Kane & I discuss that it’s often between seasons six to eight for when a player hits their scoring peak. The phenomenal thing about Walsh is over his first three seasons he’s already a top 15 player for most points. The upside for the next 10 seasons is potentially immeasurable. At 21 years of age, he has the most upside in terms of years available, through in his perfect durability over his career and it’s hard to overlook him here. Sam Walsh is one of the best runners in the competition already. He wins the contested and uncontested footy, he applies defensive pressure through tackles and is supreme in his game day preparation. I believe Walsh at one is a clear no brainer, and a case could be made that he deserves to be in a tier all on his own.
Jack Steele
KANE
It was a phenomenal season from Jack Steele that has me convinced that this guy will be the highest scoring player across the next three years and could even reset the record books. In 2021 Steele averaged 121 points across all 22 games but it’s the second half of his season that has me excited. In his final 11 games Steele averaged a monster 134 points thanks to 32 touches, 5.5 marks, 9.4 tackles and 0.5 goals a game. Let’s revisit the record books for a moment. In 2014 Tom Rockliff averaged 134.7 points across 18 games with Brisbane, the highest by any player in fantasy history. In 2018 Tom Mitchell scored the most points in a season by averaging 129.1 across all 22 games. If there’s a player in the league that could challenge these two records it’s Jack Steele. His ball winning exploded in the back half of the year, with six of his 10 best ball winning performances coming in the last 10 games of the season. Looking even deeper, his three best ball winning games came in the last five games of the year, which were 37, 36 and 36 disposals respectively. I can definitely see Steele taking his career-high for disposals into the 40s so if he can do that a couple times in a season he’s a genuine shot at both records. If you’re only worried about the short to medium term Jack Steele is your man and should be your first pick. The long term looks great too for a guy that is about to turn 26 and is the clear star midfielder in his side.
MJ
I’ve long been a fan of Jack Steele. Even before his breakout 2020 season, Steele was a consistent 90’s averaging player. His score build was always heavily reliant on his tackle count, but if he became more of a ball winner he’d elevate himself to a top performing fantasy prospect. We saw this happen in 2020 when he returned 5 tons, 6 additional scores over 90 and just one score below 70. Remembering that ’80 was the new 100′ that’s an incredibly prolific scoring season factoring in the shorter quarters. He ended the season ranked fifth for total scoring and 10th by averages. His 2020 seasonal average of 90.9 is an adjusted average equivalent of 113. The question entering into 2021 was whether or not Steele had fully established himself as a fantasy performer, or if the shortened games suited his playing style. Jack answered these questions emphatically with an average of 121. It consisted of 19 tons, 11 of these were over 120, and nine were over 130 including 162 V Blues. As we discussed on the podcast he got better as the year went on including posting 12 consecutive tons to end the year. Arguably if he can maintain his back half scoring of 2021 for the entirety of a season he could rival the fantasy elite scoring of Tom Mitchell and Tom Rockliff. Along with this strong scoring capacity is his durability. Steele has missed just five games in five seasons as a Saint, but hasn’t missed in past two. When the 2022 season commences, he’ll be 26 years of age. That still leaves plenty more prime scoring seasons from this St Kilda star. Just between us, I think he’ll be the top scoring player next year and probably the year after too.
Jack Macrae
KANE
I’ve spoken at length on the podcast about the three year rolling window I use to evaluate players and Jack Macrae sits well clear on top of all three major metrics – durability, average and total points. The durability is perfect for Macrae. He’s played all 61 home and away games. Only 20 players have done that across the past three year stretch. His average of 115 across the past three years is No.1, and that’s on the back of three incredibly consistent seasons of 116, 113 and 116 seasonal averages. It’s no surprise then that Macrae is No.1 for total points. He’s scored 250 more points than Brodie Grundy (2nd), 1000 more points than Jack Crisp (16th) and 2000 more points than Jy Simpkin (50th). Those numbers are just insane. You can’t be more glowing of what Macrae has already achieved and I think we’ll see those 115 output continue for at least the next two seasons. With his neat kicking skills it’s easy to see him transition into a damaging half-forward in the later years of his career and continue to be a premium scorer going forward.
MJ
Over the past eight seasons, Jackson Macrae has barely put a foot wrong. Since 2014 he’s had seven seasonal averages over 104 including 122 and multiple over 115.
In addition to his scoring consistency, Macrae has missed just two games in the past five years. he hasn’t missed a match since July 22nd 2018. Jackson has just turned 27, and during the past 4 years, he’s averaged 115 or higher. I see nothing in the way he plays or Dogs use him to suggest his scoring dries up anytime soon. For the 2021 AFL season, he ranked first in the league for disposals, 4th for score involvements, 5th inside ’50s, 3rd for Frees for, 10th for meters gained and 12th tackles. This further highlights the scoring splits of Macrae and how near imp[ossible he is to stop. Despite having three scores of 145 or higher this year, the knock-on Macrae is a gradual dip in the conversion of his 100’s into big tons. But with the frequency he has hit and should keep hitting the triple figure mark, it’s a very small ‘knock’ at best.
By now there are very few who are contending for the cash prize and so what drives your SuperCoach ambitions at this point in the season? Perhaps your team is settled, or almost there with 1-2 more trades to make? Perhaps you’re sitting pretty waiting for the league finals to begin so you can claim victory over your mates? Or perhaps there’s a slight chance you can make a league final series and so it’s all or nothing.
Now that the byes are well and truly gone this is the time of year where big things can happen. And when I say big things, I mean big scores. The premiums are in, the rookies are off the field, and the opportunity for some monster scores keep us coming back. Well, it is for me anyway.
And this week was case in point. The team of the week scored 2804! Sean Darcy topped the competition with a 193. Sean Darcy! Followed closely by Darcy Parish (190) and back-in-form-ripe-for-the-picking-forward Patrick Dangerfield had 184. This is what we come to see.
The big scores started on Thursday night as Touk Miller again led the Suns from the front with 153. An excellent VC choice in hindsight. Tom Lynch’s return was impressive with a 126, and now has to be in the conversation as a possible F6 option for some teams. He’s pretty cheap at $346k. Bachar Houli also had a 112 but has succumbed to the dreaded syndesmosis.
Now Friday night brought out the big guns in the wet. Parish and Dangerfield both went big and the eight other tons in the game don’t even seem worth mentioning. What was pleasing was to finally see Dangerfield show us his ceiling like we’d all been hoping for him to. Those 20% of coaches who now have him were richly rewarded. The rest live in regret.
GWS had a great win over Melbourne while Steven May top scored with 131. Josh Kelly had a great first half but then dropped off to lead the Giants side with a 118.
Despite getting completely done by the Lions, Rory Laird has a solid 129 and was the standout for the Crows in their loss. He is now ranked number two in defence for the season, and number 10 as a midfielder. He’s having a great SuperCoach season. For the Lion Marcus Adams led with a great 135, with Zac Bailey and Jarryd Lyons slightly behind in the mid-120s.
Carlton also had a great win over Fremantle, even though Sean Darcy took the rucking department by the horns and ended up with a huge 193. Who’d have thought he’d have been the fourth best ruck of the competition at the start of the season? Andrew Brayshaw and Luke Ryan also performed solidly for coaches who have them too. For the Blues, Sam Walsh was again impressive and will be on the wishlists of many teams come 2022. His 138 now moves him into seventh best midfielder for the season.
Charlie Dixon was the only plus-130 score in Port’s win over Hawthorn. If we’re talking big scores this week then there’s not much here to see. Lachlan Bramble, the rookie of the week, did manage an 80 though and earned $50k for those who jumped on him.
If we didn’t know the Eagles despised GMHBA Stadium then we certainly do after this week. Offt, what a performance. Sydney thumped them and in so doing Callum Mills scored 121 and Lance Franklin had a competitive 113. On the Eagles side of the ledger, there’s nothing much to say.
Jack Steele was on fire on Sunday afternoon as he led the Saints to beat the Pies. His 154 would’ve been a great captain selection for anyone who missed out on the scores in previous games. Brodie Grundy is the only one worth highlighting for the Pies as he led his team in scoring.
To round out the weekend the Bulldogs did the expected number over the Kangaroos. Jack Macrae found enough of the footy again to help deliver a 138, and gave plenty of coaches a decent enough captain score having missed out on other opportunities. Ziebell, Goldstein, Cunnington and Hall topped for the Roos and are all familiar to us no doubt.
Whatever your motivation going into the round I hope you enjoyed one or two big scores this week. It was certainly the round for it. All the best as we head toward the finish line, or finals at least. Chat to you next week.
Two weeks of the multi bye rounds are over. We now have an additional four teams with no more scheduled rests for the remainder of the season. So here’s a club by club breakdown of potential upgrade targets who have just had their bye round.
A one game suspension for Dayne Zorko rules himself out of a trade target this week. It’s a frustrating loss for current owners who cop an extra 0 in round 14. But for coaches wanting to trade into one of the best forwards of the season, you’ll need to wait another week. In SuperCoach, he’s averaging 108.7 across the season, including a rolling monster three game average of 133. While for AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s going at 103.8 for the season and since round 5 has only had one score below 100. It’s not a ‘buy low’ option, but on the current trend, he’s been the most reliable, durable and consistent premium forward of 2021.
On the topic of ‘paying for what you get’ Jarryd Lyons has been one of the most reliable players of the season. In SuperCoach, he’s currently ranked inside the top 10 players in the format with an average of 119, made of 11 tons from his 12 games this year. Similarly, in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s dominating with an average of 111.7 and just one score below 95 all season. To go with his high scoring floor is a newly discovered ceiling that makes him a genuine captaincy options in most games.
When the discussion around premium defenders comes up the following names come up frequently and rightfully so. Rory Laird, Tom Stewart, Jake Lloyd, Callum Mills etc. However. Daniel Rich, deserves to be discussed in this category too. For SuperCoach, He’s ranked 6th for total points and by averages amongst all defenders. His average of 104.6 and just one score under 89 all year makes him an attractive premium prospect. What should increase ‘buy’ stocks on him even more so his ownership in just 5% of teams is criminally low for the season he’s delivered.
Across in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he’s ranked 6th for total points (1,189) and 7th for averages (99.1). Just like in SC, his scoring basement (80) is high, while he does offer a ceiling (131) which is something he’s struggled to deliver at times in this format. Like his teammate Jarryd Lyons, he’s unique and he’s top tier low scoring variance option.
We can’t speak about the Brisbane Lions and not discuss the reigning Brownlow Medalist Lachie Neale. He started the season as the most expensive midfielder, but after suffering from a preseason back injury it limited his early season form. However, he started to get back to his best in 5 against Essendon. In that match he scored 145 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 157 in SuperCoach. However, the very next week he suffered an ankle injury that saw him miss the next 6 weeks.
In his come back match against Essendon before the bye he had 26 possession, 14 of them contested and going at 80% efficiency. Importantly he won 9 clearances and had 3 score involvements. At his price this isn’t the perfect week to get him. His breakeven while attainable given his lofty history, is still a week or so away from basement price.
Then add a matchup with Mark O’Connor the following week who towled him up earlier in the season in round two you might be tempted to wait one further week. However, if you look at the Brisbane fixture after round 15, it opens up like crazy for last years Preliminary finalists. They play Adelaide, St Kilda, Richmond, Hawthorn and Gold Coast. You couldn’t ask for a better run, and no ‘tagger’ among them.
In SuperCoach heading into round 16, he’s projected to be priced about $530,000 while in AFLFantasy it’ll be $700,000 and similar in DreamTeam. At those price point if you need a M8 he’ll be very difficult to ignore given that fixture and his history.
Four weeks ago wSA the perfect ‘buy low’ on Patrick Cripps. In that time he posted 3 AFLFantasy/DreamTeam 100’s and posted a season high 133 in SuperCoach just two games ago against the Swans. A combination of managing injuries and him being used more forward than I like is seeing ‘Crippa’ not deliver the consistency of scoring he has in the past. For me, he’s still a solid option. But I’d only go there if cash generation and trades is a major problem and you need to start taking ‘the best available in a range.’
I don’t really want to write up about Nic Newman, but I feel an obligation to do so somewhere inside of me. He’s got a fantasy pedigree and is someone I wouldn’t be shocked to average 90 over the final 10 weeks of the season. However, for me, I see some better value options at a comparable or cheaper price. Plus, I don’t see him averaging enough to be a top 10 defender over the final 10 weeks. Pass for me, but others might see it differently.
The one to target for me from the Blues is Zac Williams. History tells us that he’s an elite rebounding defender, and when given the opportunity, he can be a 90 defender if not greater. Over the past 3 weeks, Carlton have seemingly abandoned the ‘he’s a midfielder’ plan, and since moving back, he’s started to play well and deliver the fantasy scoring. In his last three games, he’s averaging 102 in SuperCoach, while in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s scored two games between 90-99.
Nic Newman and Zac Williams’s additions into the defensive unit have meant that Sam Docherty’s scoring has taken a hit. Why? Because he’s been moved out of his preferred halfback role and asked to play more across the wing. He’s been excellent over the totality of the season, but as long as he’s not the prime mover for the Blues, I wouldn’t be trading into him.
Carlton has replaced their midfield reliance on Patrick Cripps for an overreliance on Sam Walsh. At the start of the season, he was one of the easiest starting squad plays. His current average of 110 in SuperCoach and 108 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam shows that owners have been justified with the selection. If you’re looking to bring him in, it’s not a ‘cheap pick’, it’s not a ‘unique pick’, nor is he in reality yet a ‘captaincy pick.’ But as an owner across the formats, owning him is a fun pick!
The recently re-signed ‘bomber for life’ Zach Merrett is enjoying another consistent year. He’s yet again averaging 110 across the formats, and barring one exception against North Melbourne, has been a picture of consistency. One thing you want when trading into a premium is to time it with a favourable matchup. That way, you get the immediate scoring bump into your lineup.
This happens for Merrett owners this week, coming up against Hawthorn side that lacks midfield Power and giving up plenty of fantasy points to opposition players.
Fantasy Footy 101 is what? Buy Low, Sell High! Darcy Parish has been sensational since his move into the midfield. Yes, he’s a captaincy option, and yes, he’s unique. But for it to be worth the investment, he needs to go 135 over the rest of the seasons 10 games. Can he? Possibly, will he? I don’t think so! Well done if you own him, but until that price bottoms out a little, it’s a pass from me.
On current form, Kyle Langford is one of the form forwards of the competition. The bombers midfield injury crisis has also aided his scoring boost, averaging over 110 across all formats of the game in the past three games. This midfield role should continue for the next few weeks, which means the scoring trend will follow suit. My only word of caution is to keep an eye on the returning Dylan Shiel in 2-3 weeks and what impact his role may have.
One of the best starting squad options in 2021 has been Nick Hind. The former Saint has been outstanding as the club’s replacement for Adam Saad. While he hasn’t popped too many high ceiling games yet, he’s offered incredible consistent scoring. If your forward line is looking for a bankable 90 from now till seasons end, Hind is your guy.
After a strong opening month where he averaged 133 in SuperCoach and 108 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, Jordan Ridley slowed a little late. He might scare many of on current form, but he has a history of being a top tier defender. Part of the problem has been the sharing of kick out duties that he held a monopoly on during that opening month. He’s a great buy low option, especially if he can get back some of that kick in ownership.
If your ranking has you near the top of the tree, then chances are you’ve own Jackson Macrae for large portions of the season. He’s the only player across all formats of the game that’s scored 100 or more in every match. He’ll cost you a large chunk of coin, but his current owners will testify that he’s worth every cent. If you don’t own him, you need to wait and hope he drops a stinker. If you have non-owners remorse, it’s because players like Macrae you want for all the season, not just portions of it. Learn from it!
Is he a must have? Honestly, no. Why? Two reasons, if you’re trying to make up ground on the current leaders, he won’t be unique to help you do that. Second, as good as he’s been this year (and he’s been spectacular) across the formats, we have cheaper options that are scoring within a handful of points of him, such as Touk Miller.
I won’t talk anyone out of owning him. He’s a jet and is clearly a VC/C option every week! The only thing I would say is this, can you invest the money in other options that in totality improve your side overall?
You can’t talk about the Bulldogs and not highlight their skipper in Marcus Bontempelli. He’s having a career best season so far. His current SuperCoach average of 126 is 10 points clear on anything he’s down ever in his career. Similarly, in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, it’s the first time he’s averaged over 110.
Bont has gone on hot runs like this before and averaging similar numbers. What prospective buyers will need from this investment is a return that is comparable or greater than his current average. If he doesn’t, then paying ‘overs’ can cripple your rush to end the season. Since round 4 in SuperCoach, he’s hit the ton in every match, including 7 games north of 125. While AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s on a run of eight consecutive 100’s.
Lachie Hunter has a history of averaging 100 across the formats, but if there was a version of the game you want him more than others in 2021, it’s AFLFantasy. Simply because he gained MID/FWD DPP just a few weeks back.
He is averaging 112.7 in his past three games in SuperCoach and is coming off the back of four consecutive tons. While grabbing him ‘on the cheap’ is certainly tempting,he’s not the only value option in that range. For around $50k cheaper, coaches might be more tempted in the value of Patrick Cripps. Kangaroo Jy Simpkin has had 3 tons in his last 4 games, including a monster 164 and last weekends 128. Hunter is good, but will he offer the ceiling and value of these other options?
A seasonal average of 86 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam is certainly unders what he’s done historically. Still, the major reason for a slow start to the season was him being squeezed off the wing and onto a half forward line. With injuries to Josh Dunkley and Adam Treloar, Lachie has moved back to his preferred wing role and has since averaged 98 in his past three games. In AFLFantasy, he’s an easy buy this week, and at $642k, it won’t take a rocket scientist to see him as a target this week.
Bailey Dale has been the surprise packet of the year. Nobody called this performance coming from him. An average of 97 in SuperCoach for the season and 105 in the last five. While for the year in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s running at 86, with that increasing to 93 in his last five games. Dale has been one of the most consistent performing forward options available. If you believe his recent trend continues, then a combination of that plus his low ownership might make him the perfect unique pick for the run home.
Lastly, Caleb Daniel might not be the most attractive pick, but over the course of the past 2 & 1/2 seasons, he’s a proven 90 defender in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 100 in SuperCoach. It’s a safe play and certainly something I could get behind if a coach wanted him in.
It’s not often a player scores over 200 so when one does we watch in awe and ride the wave. A big congratulations to those 31.8% of coaches who have him in their team, and even more so if you had him as captain or played the VC loophole. As it happens, the last time we saw a score of 200+ was round 10 last year. It also happened to be Clayton Oliver. And it also happened to be against Adelaide. We all know what to lock in for next year!
A great win by the Lions over the Tigers saw Jarryd Lyons, Dayne Zorko, and Hugh McCluggage again take out the top three for their side. Lyons now moves into sixth in the overall scoring rankings and it’ll be interesting to see how the rest of his season goes. Bachar Houli topped for Richmond, and is looking very tasty for 470k. Sure, it’s a risk. He may only average 80-odd from here on out and looks like he’s dropped off a bit compared to other years. But, what we do know is that he’s got a good history and will be fine job security wise. It’s a case of risk and reward.
Zac Williams and Adam Saad finally rewarded owners with a decent score. And Sam Walsh was looking like he’d rank number one this week if half-time scores were anything to go by. A shame he dropped off so much in the second half, but he did look quite sore toward the end. Carrying a side does take its toll. Nevertheless, Carlton got the win over Hawthorn as Tom Mitchell went big with a 142.
Joel Selwood played a good captain’s game and there were plenty of tons as Geelong defeated Gold Coast. Mitch Duncan owners will need to deal with at least one week without him, and possibly more depending on the results of his concussion tests over coming days.
The first one-point victory for the weekend went to Adelaide over Melbourne. What a great performance by the Crows, particularly in the final 15. Paul Seedsman, Rory Laird, and Ben Keays top scored. But despite the one point loss it was Oliver’s 204 that brought the house down in our fantasy community. Just a great performance personally and for all of us who have him.
The second one-point victory also happened on Saturday night as the Saints (5.3) went down to Aaron Noughton (5.4). I suppose we do need to include his teammates’ scores in there too, which does boost the win a little bit. Marcus Bontempelli, Bailey Dale, and Jackson Macrae, and Tom Liberatore again helped us coaches out considerably. The 6000 coaches who have Adam Treloar will be sweating his scan results this week, which may see him sidelined for multiple rounds. There is nothing to say about the Saints.
Fremantle pipped Sydney by two points. I can’t say I saw any of this game nor had any interest in it but there were good tons by Nat Fyfe, and the two Freo ruckmen Rory Lobb and Sean Darcy. Jordan Dawson made 932 coaches happy with his 145 and it was good to see Lance Franklin and Callum Mills closely behind.
Lachie Whitfield made his first ton of the season in GWS’s win over West Coast. And Tom Green continues his great run of form these last few weeks. NicNat is an option for those who still need to upgrade their R2 from Flynn. He is the outright third best ruckman of the competition for us and top scored for the Eagles with 120.
The final one-point victory for the week saw Port Adelaide grab the win over Collingwood despite losing in all those vital statistics–clearances, marks, contested possessions, and effectiveness. I suppose they win the battle of the bar guernseys this time round. Darcy Moore (142) and Brodie Grundy (138) had great scores and Robbie Gray (118) topped the list for the Power.
I attended my first game in-person for quite some time, and it wasn’t pretty watching the Dons completely maul my Roo boys. I’m not sure if it was the pressure from the Bombers or just really poor and slow by North. In any case, it enabled Darcy Parish (152), Andrew McGrath (123), and Zac Merrett (117) to bring home some good scores. For North, well, Ben Cunnington had 142 and Aaron Hall did make the ton in the end.
But you’ve got to love a weekend with mammoth scores and good results from many of the usual suspects. I hope you had every success this weekend and look forward to the next one. In the meantime, keep planning for those byes, they’re just around the corner.
As Monty Python’s “The Life Brian” reminds us, we’ve always got to look on the bright side of life. For despite another round of carnage for many coaches there were plenty of positives to take away from this weekend’s games. Let’s at least name some of these before moving to the more critical issues many have to deal with.
Nine tons from the Eagles meant there were plenty of coaches happy with some of their selections. Liam Duggan top scored and Alex Witherden had a great debut. There’s a couple of possible options in an already packed defensive line.
The Bulldogs do what the Bulldogs do and have such great midfield depth that plenty get on the scoreboard. Josh Dunkley, Jackson Macrae, and Marcus Bontempelli were all exceptional for our teams. Even when Bont goes forward he still manages to grab the points we want him to, it’s just a beautiful thing right now.
Surely we all want Lance Franklin to reach 1000 goals in his career. If that’s the case then we may see more scores like that on Saturday. It was a tough loss in the end for the Swans, mind you, all us Matt Flynn owners are possibly in for a tough few weeks still as Shane Mumford and his 669 owners continue to celebrate. He was the highest scorer and only ton for GWS.
Port Adelaide did a number on Carlton and also had plenty of 100’s. Sam Walsh the only consolation for Blues fans with a terrific 144.
Lachie Neale did what all his owners have wanted him to do all season. He showed what he’s capable of and the high ceiling he has. His fellow midfielder, Hugh McCluggage was also impressive and is perhaps one to keep an eye on. Zach Merrett the only positive for the Dons.
There were some good scores in the Crows–Dockers game. David Mundy keeps going, Liam Ryan another good option for us in the backline, Nat Fyfe and Andrew Brayshaw all in the mix as well.
Reilly O’Brien looks like a genuine upgrade target for those, like me, having to deal with a disastrous ruck situation. Locking him in alongside Max Gawn, who absolutely dominated and is now the number one scorer not only in his position but overall, would be a consistent combo.
Geelong didn’t have to do too much to beat North, but Tom Stewart and Sam Menegola certainly provided a helpful lift for some coaches. Jack Ziebell continues on with his excellent scoring and is currently the third best forward in the game.
See, there are plenty of positives to talk about. But, yes, you’re right. There are issues galore as well. One way to look at this past weekend is to see it through the tale of the Jordan’s.
Friday night didn’t go well for any Pies supporters or Jordan De Goey coaches. Having to deal with a score of 4 just makes it a tough round, having him drop by $57.6k is salt into the wounds, and then the fact that he’ll miss next week as well. I don’t know what that is, death by a 100 papercuts? Coaches will have to decide though, is it an easy sell or a gutsy hold?
The other Jordan is old mate Jordan Ridley. Off with concussion saw his score stand at 31 and he’ll also miss the ANZAC Day clash. What made this one worse for many coaches was the decision to offload Caleb Daniel to upgrade to him. That is the definition of carnage.
And the final Jordan worth mentioning here is Jordan Clark. These rolling team selections are causing issues every weekend and this week over 50% of teams were impacted by his omission from the Cats squad.
There’s more we could speak of here too; Mumford taking Flynn’s spot in the ruck, breakevens creeping higher and higher for a number of our rookies, and the few downgrade options coming through.
Whatever weekend you had, I hope you make decisions you’re happy with in the coming days. After all, we’ve got to look on the bright side don’t we?
