Ralph: End of ‘Buddy Era’ gives Swans best premiership hope
The Swans are flying high, and while they would love a prime Lance Franklin, it’s become clear his retirement has helped create the most complete side in the AFL, writes JON RALPH.
Jon Ralph
Why aren’t we talking about Essendon’s ‘piss take’?
Not long before Brad Scott gave Sam Draper another earbashing for his ‘disrespectful’ comments, the digital team was fully taking the piss. JON RALPH asks, can the industry have it both ways?
38 touches, 15 marks: The free agent too good for VFL
He was unlucky to be dropped after round 1 and can’t fight his way back into the AFL despite dominating performances at VFL level. Could this free agent be gettable for your team in 2025?
The price Tigers could put on head of perfect role model
Richmond loves Liam Baker. And the Tigers will believe Baker loves them enough to stay. But what if the lure of home is too strong? JON RALPH assesses the trade situation.
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Learning from the best: What was Selwood’s advice to draftees?
Joel Selwood retired at the conclusion of the 2022 season as one of the most successful players ever. So what was his advice to this year’s crop of rookies just starting out?
Ralphy’s big call: Early marquee games may torpedo big shots
A stacked early AFL fixture of marquee games in 2023 could be the undoing of some much-scrutinised teams, writes Jon Ralph.
The two teams hit hard by AFL’s new fixture rule
The AFL’s weighted rule has helped bottom-six teams in the fixture since 2013. But there’s been a slight adjustment – and it’s not good news for two clubs.
Fixture buzz: Prison bars battle must headline Magic Round
What will make Magic Round a success? How about these spicy match-ups. Get the lowdown on exactly what we want to see out of the 2023 fixture.
How Clarko can get to the bottom of Roos enigma
Alastair Clarkson has a lot of work to do – but one of his most important jobs is working out Tarryn Thomas. Can he do it? Plus, the three other Roos who could take next step.
Why premiership Cats will get armchair ride to 2023 finals
They might have won the flag, but Geelong is about to get a back-ended schedule of home games at its redeveloped Cattery fortress. Here’s why.
Jack Riewoldt, Gerard Whateley in left-field motor sport deal
Just saying yes has given Jack Riewoldt some amazing experiences. And co-owning a motor sport venture with Fox Footy colleagues and a V8 superstar could be the craziest adventure yet.
Free agency: Players likely to be left out in the cold
With the first window of delisted free agency closing on Wednesday these are the players who are looking like they may not find a new club.
What Lachie Neale told Dunkley on pre-trade phone call
Josh Dunkley has spoken for the first time after his trade to Brisbane finally went through, and revealed a phone call from a Lions superstar helped ease his nerves.
Why Roos fans should be nervous about Horne-Francis deal
North Melbourne’s decision to trade Jason Horne-Francis and pick 1 could prove to be an inspired move. But fans will be watching with their hands over their eyes.
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