The run home to the AFL finals in 2025 remains must-watch viewing, with positions one through to eight there for the taking with five home-and-away rounds remaining (six for Gold Coast).

Collingwood appeared a lock for a top-two finish, even the minor premiership, but they have stumbled. Brisbane, Geelong and Adelaide have one hand on the double chance, and are also eyeing two home finals, while there is as much certainty about positions five through to eight as there is predicting US President Donald Trump’s next move.

So, where will your team finish? We analyse the run home for each of the contenders, and deliver our final predicted ladder that, in a season of uncertainty, will undoubtedly spark debate.

Work to do: Darcy Moore and his Magpies have had a slip-up, leaving the minor premiership up for grabs.Credit: Getty Images

What we say: The Magpies appeared a lock for a top-two finish, but back-to-back defeats, and a worrying injury list, mean they suddenly look wobbly. They now face a huge three-week stretch against the Lions, Hawks (off a five-day break) and Crows, the latter in Adelaide. We’re backing them to win two of those three games, but not with complete confidence. Hoping Jeremy Howe and Dan Houston return soon. Best-case finish: First. Worst-case finish: Fourth.

Hand-to-hand combat: Lachie Neale and the Lions are well positioned to challenge for back-to-back flags.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images

What we say: This is a tough run home, with four of their five opponents firmly in finals contention, and Sydney still pushing. We’re tipping – without confidence – that the Lions may win only two of these, against the Swans and Hawks, while the Dockers are vulnerable despite their win over the Magpies. Regardless, the Lions will be well-placed come September to challenge for back-to-back flags. Best case: First. Worst case: Fifth.

At last: Matthew Nicks’ Crows are heading back to September for the first time since 2017.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images

What we say: It’s refreshing to see the Crows back in finals contention, let alone challenging for the top four; they haven’t featured in September action since 2017. Boasting arguably the best forward line in the competition, they have a relatively friendly run home, with the Eagles and Kangaroos on the menu. This week’s Showdown will be a beauty, and we’re backing them to topple the Magpies in round 23, potentially finishing with the minor premiership (if the Magpies stumble against fellow contenders), but more likely as high as second. Best case: First. Worst case: Fifth.

September dreaming: Steele Sidebottom, Bailey Smith, Jack Ginnivan and Rory Lobb have premiership........

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