Geelong put in an imperious performance against Carlton, and are in red-hot form even without Tom Stewart.

This week on the Real Footy podcast, Michael Gleeson, Jake Niall and Sam McClure discuss the Cats, who flexed their muscles at the MCG in a clear indicator of what we can expect in September. Geelong have a valuable, versatile tall in Mark Blicavs, are getting more out of their role players and have a lot of pace. They’re the clear premiership favourites now.

Also this week, Richmond had a leadership problem in the dying stages of their upset loss to North Melbourne, the latest in a series of missed opportunities this season. But even though they have lost some games that they could have won, there will still be teams that fear them in finals, should they make it, especially if Dion Prestia and Dustin Martin are back playing together. There will be plenty on the line on Friday night when the Tigers take on Fremantle.

Master and apprentice were on display when Nick Daicos starred alongside Scott Pendlebury in Collingwood’s win over the Crows. The duo’s awareness of how to use the ball is a cut above others’ and there was one particular moment that symbolised a passing of the baton. Craig McRae and Collingwood have done a great job utilising Daicos and getting the most out of his talents.

Melbourne got a good win on Sunday in the absence of Clayton Oliver and should be happy with their performance. But as the Demons continue without the injured Tom McDonald, it begs a question from left field – can they win the flag without him?

Meanwhile, St Kilda barely gave a whimper in their loss to the Western Bulldogs. Is it season over now for the Saints? And while the discussion seems to be around whether Brett Ratten is the best option as coach, should the focus be more on their list? The difference between their best and worst seems to be growing.

Plus, whether the Blues should get compensation if Liam Jones is picked up by another club, the reborn Bombers, why Scott Pendlebury would be the perfect fit for North Melbourne, how Jack Ginnivan is being umpired and what it’s like inside the AFL’s score review bunker.

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