Who should you be tipping in the Opening Round of the AFL? Our footy experts have put their heads together to help you out. So open your ESPN Footytips app, take notes, and get ahead of the game!
Its' a footy fan's Christmas this week, with some blockbusters scheduled, from Thursday's clash between Sydney and Melbourne, to Brisbane hosting Carlton in a rematch of last year's preliminary final. Plus, the Giants host the Pies, and Gold Coast takes on Richmond in a grudge match surrounding Damien Hardwick.
EXPERT TIPS:
Matt Walsh
Certainty and why: Brisbane was unbeaten at the Gabba last season, and it's hard to see them not getting off to a winning start against the Blues.
Upset and why: The Tigers don't have much love surrounding them this season, but the Suns, as favourites, didn't impress in preseason. Expect Richmond to come out firing against Damien Hardwick.
Tips for the week:
Melbourne
Brisbane
Richmond
Collingwood
Jarryd Barca
Certainty and why: Defeating Brisbane at the Gabba is arguably the hardest thing to do in footy these days and, as Matt said, their recent record there is formidable. They should be able to account for the Blues who may be without a couple of stars.
Upset and why: I didn't expect Collingwood to be the underdogs against GWS. While I see the Giants playing finals again this year, the reigning premiers go into Opening Round with a healthy list and should just be too strong.
Tips for the week:
Melbourne
Brisbane
Richmond
Collingwood