WITH three weeks left in the AFL season, a race to win a spot in the top eight is heating up.
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Several teams outside of the eight have been showing better form than those inside the eight.
It looks like it will be a fascinating few weeks.
I look at my crystal ball and predict what may happen on the run home.
I look at my crystal ball and predict what may happen on the run home.
1. Hawthorn, 60pts
The Hawks have faced some hurdles this season, but have overcome injuries to key players, suspensions and the loss of Lance Franklin impeccably well.
The reigning premiers will be the team to beat in September.
2. Sydney, 60pts
After a shaky start to the season, John Longmire's men are finishing the season in imposing fashion.
Lance Franklin is in red-hot form and with the likes of Kurt Tippett and Adam Goodes floating in the forward line, they might be the only team to take down the Hawks.
3. Geelong, 60pts
Good teams just find a way to win and the Cats always seem to win the nail-biters.
Not sure if they can win the flag but if they make it to a preliminary final than I wouldn't want to play them.
4. Fremantle, 52pts
Not a huge fan of the Dockers but if Saturday's game against the Cats is anything to go by they may shake things up in September.
Nathan Fyfe is the heart of Fremantle and when he is playing well, so is the team, but it can't be left to one player.
5. Port Adelaide, 48pts
The Power is well and truly out.
Their form earlier in the year, had a lot of teams worried, but they have lost five of their past six matches.
They have hit a form slump and I am not sure if they can turn it around in time.
6. North Melbourne, 44pts
The Kangaroos have been the most frustrating teams this year, winning games they shouldn't and losing games they should be winning.
If the Roos come to play with the right mindset they can beat anyone, anywhere.
7. Adelaide, 40pts
The Crows have hit form at the right end of the season, however a big couple of weeks will determine whether or not they play finals.
They could be the dark horse if they secure their spot.
I am also loving the work of Taylor Walker.
8. Essendon, 40pts
The Bombers, perhaps have the easiest run home of those chasing a finals berth.
The loss to Richmond would have hurt, but there next three games against the Eagles, Suns and Blues are all winnable.
9. Collingwood, 40pts
My Pies, have ran out of legs.
If they win the next two games they are in with a chance but the last game of the year against the Pies' bogey side the Hawks could be the difference between playing finals or watching it from the sidelines.
10. Gold Coast, 40pts
The Suns are cooked.
They have battled hard, but the loss of the master Gary Ablett didn't help, they will be a team to watch in 2015.
Then that leaves West Coast and Richmond, who have left their tilt at September too late.