‘An extraordinary feat’: What’s behind the Collingwood resurgence?

This week on the Real Footy podcast, Michael Gleeson, Jake Niall and Caroline Wilson discuss Collingwood’s incredible resurgence from 17th last year to fourth in 2022.

By their own coach’s admission, the Magpies’ game is unsustainable. They routinely get beaten in all key statistical areas – except on the scoreboard. What has changed behind the scenes between this year and last? How much of the Pies’ success is down to McRae being a “watering” coach rather than a “weeding” one? The Pies players are being encouraged to make mistakes and take the game on with a more exciting style.

The Blues were left heartbroken on Sunday as yet another last-gasp loss left them out of the eight on percentage. Though they missed out, not only with this most recent loss but by failing to take opportunities in recent weeks, they’ve done a lot right this year. Though they have a long way to go, there’s plenty of optimism around Carlton. On the other hand, the Bulldogs have made finals, but will their year be classed as a disappointment if they don’t make a deep run a year after making the grand final?

Also this week, a look at the other finalists. What is the key concern around the Dockers? Are Richmond the biggest threat outside the top four, or are we just seduced by history? How important is Jeremy Cameron’s fitness to Geelong’s campaign and should they play him against the Pies if there is any doubt on his health? Sydney have to travel to the MCG to play Melbourne, but is that such a bad thing for the Swans? Plus, we take a look at Dayne Zorko’s leadership at the Lions.

Essendon officially removed Ben Rutten as coach on Sunday, a move that everyone knew was coming but that has been condemned for the way the Bombers handled it. But more than just a coach search, the Dons need a cultural audit. There is a disconnect among different areas inside the club. Carlton are an example that things can be turned around quickly – but only if everyone is working in the same direction. We also discuss the candidates who might be considered as “experienced” coaches for the Bombers.

Plus, the changes likely coming at North now they have landed Alastair Clarkson, what they should do with the No.1 draft pick, the biggest disappointments of the season, whether the stand rule is working as it should and much more.

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