2008 AFL Team Predictions – Adelaide Crows

[Scratchy]

B: Johnc ock, Rutten, Stevens
HB: Bassett, Bock, McLeod
C: Reilly, Knights, Van Berlo
HF: Goodwin, McGregor, Edwards
F: Burton, Hentschel, Tippett
R/R: Maric, Thompson, Shirley
I/C: Porplyzia, Symes, Doughty, Griffin
Emerg: Vince, Douglas, Campbell.
Given injuries, Sellar, Moran, Gill, Massie will all play roles this year.
Leading goalkicker: Hentschel (despite missing first month).
Leading possessions: Knights
Leading marks: Bassett
Step up: Bock, Van Berlo, Tippett, Porplyzia.
Rising star: Kurt Tippett
General Comments: Weakness in the ruck department with Biglands going down for the year again. Forward line will surprise a lot of teams if Hentschel, Tippett, Burton, and McGregor stay fit, and Goodwin, Edwards, and McLeod also contribute there. Defense is very strong, Rutten is the best full back in the league, Scarlett was lauded for being a Cat but had way more goals kicked on him (e.g. 7 goals v Jonathan Brown). Combine that with All Australians Bassett and McLeod, a fit Johnc ock, this year's AA CHB Nathan Bock, and the improving Stevens, I think Crows will retake the mantle as league's stingiest defense. Midfield is going to be young and fast, hopefully won't be too inefficient and wasteful nor handball TOO much.
Predicted Final Ladder Position: 2nd
Keys To Winning the Premiership: Fewer injuries, better accuracy in front of goals, more efficient disposal.