The Brisbane Lions are widely regarded as the current favorites to win the 2025 AFL premiership, primarily due to their explosive and powerful style of play that has consistently outmatched opponents throughout the season. Their ability to perform strongly both at home and on the road, demonstrated by nine wins from twelve away games, underscores their depth and resilience. This form, combined with their status as reigning premiers, gives them a psychological edge and a target on their back that they have proven capable of handling[3].
In addition to Brisbane, teams like Geelong, Collingwood, and Adelaide remain serious contenders, each boasting strong squads and experienced coaching. Collingwood, for example, benefits from recent finals experience and the leadership of premiership coach Craig McRae, alongside star player Nick Daicos, which keeps them in the premiership conversation despite some mid-season challenges[1]. Geelong’s consistency and Adelaide’s competitive edge also keep them in the hunt, but Brisbane’s combination of form, squad depth, and coaching continuity currently sets them apart as the team to beat[4].