Top nine breakdown: How every finals contender stacks up against each other

Nine clubs have separated themselves from the rest, and the finals bracket is beginning to take shape. But even the hottest of teams have rivals they don’t want to see in September.

With August on our doorsteps, now is the time clubs need to get their game rolling if they want to win it all in September.

As Cats coach Chris Scott said this week, the “hottest” team in the month of finals will probably win it all and match-ups could be crucial.

While Sydney is trying to stick around, nine clubs have separated from the rest.

Here’s who’s excelling against who in the top nine, plus a club-by-club breakdown of what’s working, what isn’t and who each club is hoping to face or avoid come finals. .