ROBBO’S PREDICTED LADDER

1. GEELONG

Has the talent and the gameplan – all the Cats need is hunger and the September gods smiling.

2. BRISBANE

Two words. No excuses.

3. MELBOURNE

They look locked and loaded and could easily do it. ‘Gawndy’ will be fascinating.

4. COLLINGWOOD

Please coach, more blitzkrieg footy. And with the same luck they’ll better their preliminary final finish from 2022.

5. RICHMOND

A lot of ‘ifs’ about the Tigers. If the recruits fire, if Dusty is back and if the old boys can last.

6. SYDNEY

Couldn’t leave them out of the eight but not sure where they’ll finish. Could they be scarred?

7. WESTERN BULLDOGS

Could win it all and I’ve got them seventh – that’s how tight 2023 will be.

8. FREMANTLE

Won a final last year after a long build, which started with Ross Lyon, my dark horse for the top four.

9. CARLTON

Not as bullish as others on the Blues but might be wrong. Can they meet their expectations?

10. PORT ADELAIDE

Everyone is looking at Kenny and his team – what are they going to deliver?

11. GOLD COAST

Ben King could be the recruit of the year and like the Crows no more excuses for the Suns.

12. ADELAIDE

It’s time Adelaide, the build nears completion so results are expected.

13. ESSENDON

Brad Scott says they will defend but the proof will be in the pudding.

14. ST KILDA

Injury wrecked before the start will make it very difficult in Ross Lyon’s first season.

15. GWS GIANTS

The hardest team to gauge. Kelly, Whitfield, Coniglio could have a lease of life.

16. NORTH MELBOURNE

There’s excitement around North Melbourne but that doesn’t equate to wins.

17. WEST COAST

Vying for the spoon but they say they’re fitter.

18. HAWTHORN

Will be a long season for the youngsters. No Mitch Lewis for a while hurts.