The AFL is back in full swing this week (minus a couple of teams), with a series of exciting matches lined up that promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Thursday night footy returns with a bang as the Sydney Swans play host to St Kilda at the SCG. The Saints, coming off a bye, are hoping to break their poor record at the SCG and against the Swans. However, with Sydney on a two-game winning streak and looking to claim a big scalp, this clash is set to be a thrilling one. Tip: Sydney by a couple of goals.

On Friday, the Western Bulldogs take on Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium. Port Adelaide, under the leadership of Ken Hinkley, is aiming for a 10th straight victory, a feat that would have seemed impossible earlier in the season. The Bulldogs, on the other hand, are looking to regain their winning form after a couple of close defeats. Tip: Port Adelaide by 4 goals.

Saturday’s first match is between Hawthorn and Brisbane at the MCG. The Hawks, under Sam Mitchell, have started to hit a good patch of form after wins against the Eagles and Saints. The Lions, fresh off the bye, will be looking to continue their strong season despite the absence of former skipper Dayne Zorko. Tip: Brisbane by 25 points.

Later on Saturday, Adelaide hosts West Coast at the Adelaide Oval. The Crows have been a formidable force at home, comfortably beating several teams. The Eagles, however, have struggled this season and will need to put up a strong fight to stand a chance. Tip: Adelaide by 12 goals.

Saturday’s final match sees Fremantle face Richmond at Optus Stadium. Both teams are on the fringe of the finals hunt, with Fremantle on a four-game winning streak and Richmond trying to claw their way back into the top eight. This match is set to be a pivotal clash for both sides. Tip: Fremantle by 2 or 3 goals.

On Sunday, North Melbourne takes on GWS at Blundstone Arena. Both teams are coming off disappointing losses and will be looking to bounce back. The Giants have a mixed record at the venue, while the Kangaroos have struggled at home recently. Tip: North Melbourne by 2 or 3 goals.

In the second Sunday match, Carlton hosts Essendon at the MCG. Carlton, under Michael Voss, is under pressure after a string of losses, while Essendon, under Brad Scott, is riding a wave of positivity with three consecutive wins. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Tip: Carlton by 2 goals.

The week wraps up with a blockbuster match between Melbourne and Collingwood at the MCG on Monday for the BIG FREEZE 9. Both teams are highly rated, but Collingwood has had the better form this season. Melbourne, despite having a strong team on paper, will need to step up their game to stand a chance against the Magpies. Tip: Collingwood by 3 goals.

With such a thrilling line-up of matches, this week promises to be an exciting one for AFL fans. Stick around for some high-octane footy action!