Damian Barrett's "Sliding Doors" for the 2024 AFL Season
Texans' Future Prospects
IF: Texan is 35 early next year, THEN: He still has valuable footy left and deserves to play on beyond 2025. But his future with the Crows remains uncertain after their poor start to 2024.
Lions' True Potential
IF: The ladder states the Lions are 13th, THEN: Intuition suggests they are top six contenders. A key match against Port Adelaide on Saturday will determine their trajectory.
Blues' On-Paper Domination
IF: The Blues have assembled a near-perfect team on paper for the 2024 season, THEN: They possess an unstoppable force with two midfield and key forward guns, as well as a strong defense and midfield.
Pies' Close Matchup Record
IF: Fly has led the Pies for just 65 matches, THEN: A staggering 30 of those games have been decided by 12 points or less, with an impressive record of 24 wins, two draws, and just four losses in those tight contests.
Bombers' Mixed Results
IF: Six of the Bombers' eight wins have come against lower-ranked teams, THEN: Doubts will linger, and even a ninth win against the lowly Eagles may not dispel concerns.
Fremantle's Need for Resolve
IF: Fremantle has a history of disappointing performances, THEN: They must develop a strong resolve, as evidenced by the tough words from the coach. The team's response remains to be seen.
Tyson Stengle's Loyalty Debate
IF: One perspective suggests Stengle owes it to the Cats to stay, THEN: While acknowledging the Cats' support during a difficult time, Stengle has repaid his debt with All-Australian performances and a key role in the 2022 Grand Final.
Suns' Away Game Woes
IF: The Suns play an away game, THEN: History suggests they will continue to struggle until they break their losing streak on the road.
Sam Taylor's Courage
IF: Ruptured testicle is an excruciating condition, THEN: Sam Taylor's ability to play through the pain during the second half of the match against Port is a testament to his resilience.
James Sicily's Kicking Prowess
IF: James Sicily is in top form, THEN: His exceptional kicking ability surpasses even elite players like Merrett, Daicos, and Walker.
Swans' Midfield Depth
IF: Isaac Heeney's elite midfield skills were discovered only after Callum Mills' injury, THEN: The Demons have an opportunity for a player to shine amidst the absences of Brayshaw, Petracca, and Oliver. Trent Rivers is a potential candidate to step up.
North Melbourne's Recovery
IF: Barrett has been critical of the Roos since their controversial player releases, THEN: There are encouraging signs that the turmoil created by off-field officials is subsiding and a turnaround may be in progress.
Brodie Grundy's Hypothetical Impact
IF: The Power had signed Brodie Grundy instead of the Swans, THEN: The 2024 season would have unfolded differently, with Grundy's influence on their midfield likely to have been significant.
Dusty's Return
IF: Dustin Martin suggested he would freshen up for the bye, THEN: Fans will eagerly observe his training next week to ensure he returns to the field in 2024. The intrigue and speculation surrounding his future continues.
Academy Player Access Debate
IF: The debate over club access to Academy and father-son players is complex, THEN: Saints boss Andrew Bassat proposes a simplified solution: clubs should pay a fair price for these advantages.
John Longmire's Controversial Decision
IF: John Longmire has a strong coaching record with Sydney, THEN: His decision to remove Joel Amartey from the game after nine goals against Adelaide was a questionable one. Amartey deserved a chance to pursue a 10th goal.
Oscar Allen's Comeback
IF: Oscar Allen returns from injury, THEN: The Eagles' attack will improve significantly, with a potentially dangerous Allen-Waterman key forward combination.
The Bont's Dominance
IF: Marcus Bontempelli has already proven himself, THEN: He continues to excel, possibly inspired by the focus on other young stars. Bontempelli remains one of the AFL's premier players.
AFL Challenges
IF: AFL players are allowed to hit opponents in the head, THEN: The Match Review Office-Tribunal-Appeals Tribunal system is flawed and ineffective. Players like Zak Butters, Jesse Hogan, Scott Pendlebury, and George Hewett have been cleared despite clear headshots.