FootyBets.aiPies vs Lions: DraftStars Fantasy Preview & Core Plays
Collingwood and Brisbane lock horns under the Friday night lights at the MCG for what promises to be an absolute humdinger. With finals-like intensity on the cards, expect high-pressure footy, huge tackle numbers, and massive fantasy ceilings.
Our FootyBets.ai models have crunched the numbers, and a clear Magpie-heavy core has emerged across our top optimal builds. Here is who you need to build around.
Core Targets
- Darcy Cameron (Collingwood, RUC | Proj: 115.1) Cameron features in all 10 optimal builds for a reason. He’s set to dominate hitouts, float forward for a goal, and rack up contested marks down the line. An absolute must-have anchor.
- Jack Crisp (Collingwood, MID | Proj: 84.8) Crisp's relentless work rate at the 'G makes him a lineup staple (10/10 appearances). Expect high-octane transitional run, 20+ disposals, and crucial defensive tackles.
- Daniel McStay (Collingwood, FWD | Proj: 83.2) Facing his former side, McStay is projected as the premier forward target on the ground. When he's clunking contested marks inside 50 and hitting the scoreboard, his fantasy output goes through the roof.
- Ned Long (Collingwood, MID | Proj: 81.5) Appearing in 9 of 10 builds, Long brings ferocious inside grunt. His tackle counts and contested ball-winning ability provide an ultra-safe floor.
- Josh Dunkley (Brisbane Lions, MID | Proj: 114.8) The premier Lion on the slate. Dunkley is a contested monster who thrives on the big stage, stacking up clearances, tackles, and uncontested marks to push past the ton with ease.
Position-by-Position Cheat Sheet
- RUC: Darcy Cameron is the clear standout ruck option on the board.
- DEF: Josh Daicos (Proj: 107.2) provides elite run, link-up play, and uncontested marks across half-back.
- MID: Pair Josh Dunkley with Jack Crisp or Ned Long for a powerful clearance-and-tackle base.
- FWD: Lock in Dan McStay, with Lachie Schultz providing strong forward-half pressure and goal upside.
Ready to build a winning team? Scroll down to see our AI's Top 10 optimal DraftStars lineups for Friday night's clash!