FootyBets.aiDraftStars Dominance: Unpacking the Blues vs Pies Blockbuster at the 'G
Thursday night footy doesn't get any bigger than traditional rivals Carlton and Collingwood locking horns under the MCG lights. Expect a ferocious, high-intensity contest with plenty of fantasy points up for grabs as both sides look to stamp their early authority on the 2026 season.
Our FootyBets.ai algorithm has crunched the numbers, and a clear core of must-have players has emerged for your DraftStars builds. Here are the standout ball-magnets you need to lock in:
Nic Newman (Carlton) Appearing in 100% of our optimal builds, Newman is projected for a monster 115.8 points. He’s the general across half-back, primed to rack up cheap +6s (kick and mark combos) and intercept possessions all night long as Collingwood bombs it forward.
Jagga Smith (Carlton) The Blues midfielder is an absolute lock. Projected for a rock-solid 88.8 points, expect him to get his hands dirty at the coalface, padding his score with hard-ball gets, repeat tackles, and vital clearances.
Harry McKay (Carlton) You need goals to win DraftStars, and big Harry is the man to deliver. Projected for 79.1 points, he’ll be the main focal point inside 50, clunking contested marks and snagging multiple majors.
Oscar Steene (Collingwood) A 10/10 lock in our optimal builds, Steene (78.5 projected points) is structurally crucial up forward. He’ll find the footy, compete aggressively in the air, and lay forward-50 tackles to keep your points ticking over.
Darcy Cameron (Collingwood) Featured in 90% of our top teams, Cameron (projected 92.1) is the premier big man on the ground. He’ll stuff the stat sheet with hit-outs to advantage, follow-up clearances, and around-the-ground marks.
Position-by-Position Quick Tips
- DEF: It's all about the Blues' rebounders. Newman is non-negotiable, while Lachlan Cowan and Nick Haynes offer excellent intercepting ceilings.
- MID: Balance youth with experience. Anchor with the elite ball-winning of Sam Walsh or the evergreen Scott Pendlebury, but ensure Jagga Smith is in your mix.
- RUC: Set and forget Darcy Cameron. He has the monopoly on stoppage dominance for the Pies.
- FWD: Lock in Harry McKay for the big bags of goals, and pair him with Oscar Steene for a reliable, hard-working floor.
Ready to dominate? Check out our AI's Top 10 fully optimized DraftStars lineups for this massive Thursday night clash below!