Premiership Credentials and the Kardinia Park Trap
Round 17 is usually the time of year when the genuine contenders start to distance themselves from the middle of the pack. We are seeing a massive divide in class this week, which makes for some fascinating AFL Round 17 2024 tips. The action kicks off with a massive Friday night blockbuster at the MCG. Collingwood versus Essendon is always a highlight, but the Pies have a knack for lifting when the lights are brightest at home. Jye Caldwell has been a tackling machine for the Bombers, averaging double digits lately, but the MCG factor usually swings these close ones toward the black and white.
For those looking at AFL multi bets, the most lopsided contests appear to be in Perth and Brisbane. Fremantle is hosting Richmond, and the stats tell a grim story for the Tigers. Freo boasts one of the most disciplined defenses in the competition, while Richmond is ranked 17th for offensive efficiency. After a 54 point win for the Dockers earlier in the season, expect another clinical dismantling. Similarly, the Brisbane Lions have turned the Gabba back into a graveyard for visiting teams. The humidity and the sheer speed of the Lions' ball movement should see them overwhelm an Adelaide Crows side that has been inconsistent at best.
One of the most tactical battles of the weekend takes place at GMHBA Stadium. Hawthorn has been the form team of the last month, using a bold lateral switching game to open up opponents. However, the narrow wings of Kardinia Park are a nightmare for that style of play. Geelong is perfectly suited to punish this, with Tom Stewart and Zach Guthrie likely to feast on errant kicks as the Hawks find their space restricted. This tactical squeeze is a huge part of our Round 17 betting tips, as it negates Hawthorn's greatest strength.
In the chase for the top four, Carlton travels to face the GWS Giants. The Blues' engine room is firing on all cylinders, led by Patrick Cripps and the dominant ruck work of Tom De Koning. If Carlton wins the clearance battle as expected, their forward line has too much firepower for a Giants defense that has looked shaky under pressure. Across the round, the theme is clear, the heavyweights are ready to flex their muscles. Stick with the teams that have proven records at their home grounds and those with the midfield depth to sustain pressure for the full 120 minutes.