Storyline: The NAB Cup GF re-match. Back in March, the Dogs were telling anyone and everyone that they had gone past the Saints. This should tell us whether they were correct.

Why to watch: Because they don't meet again in the home and away season and this could well be a preview of the proper grand final.

We think: Two evenly matched sides except up forward where the Dog appear more capable of kicking a big score. That should prove the difference. Western Bulldogs by 12

NORTH MELBOURNE v MELBOURNE, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 2.10pm

Storyline: Both teams coming off terrific wins. Melbourne is inching towards becoming the real deal.

Why to watch: Will the Demon faithful find their way past Spring Street? They usually only do so for the theatre.

We think: The Demons are playing a great brand of attacking footy and were so impressive in beating Brisbane last week that we're sticking with them. For now. Melbourne by 10

ADELAIDE v PORT ADELAIDE, AAMI Stadium, 2.40pm (CST)

Storyline: Last chance saloon for the Crows. Lose this and they'll be 0-6. That's season over.

Why to watch: Because it's a Showdown. Lots of passion, lots of hard hits and lots of desperation.

We think: Port is playing too well. Adelaide's confidence and gameplan appears shot. Port Adelaide by 18

ESSENDON v HAWTHORN, MCG, Saturday, 7.10pm

Storyline: Apparently these teams had a bit of a to-do the last time they played. Might have to Google it to find out more.

Why to watch: Neither side expected to be 1-4 and have been disappointing for a variety of reasons. The Bombers have been very soft the last two weeks while Hawthorn's injury curse is no longer an acceptable excuse.

We think: The Bombers twice exposed Hawthorn last year with their run and carry. Put the skates on again and the Hawks will flounder. Essendon by 5

SYDNEY v BRISBANE, SCG, Saturday, 7.10pm

Storyline: The favourite match of the year for the AFL Commission, although in 2012 it will become GWS v Gold Coast.

Why to watch: This one could get personal. Daniel Bradshaw hates Michael Voss - wonder where his middle finger will be directed if he kicks a few and the Swannies get up?

We think: Tough game to pick but home ground advantage may just swing it Sydney's way. The Swans are in great form, although the loss of defensive general Craig Bolton certainly hurts. Sydney by 17

GEELONG v RICHMOND, Skilled Stadium, Sunday, 1.10pm

Storyline: Not sure why this gets a run in rivalry round. Perhaps because of what it means to Brad Ottens, Rex Hunt, Tom Hafey, Gareth Andrews, Paul Sarah, Graeme Landy et al.

Why to watch: The Geelong midfield could cause serious damage here. Under the pump from Mark Thompson this could personal and vindictive.

We think: The Cats will get on top early then cruise. Geelong by 60

CARLTON v COLLINGWOOD, MCG, Sunday, 2.10pm

Storyline: Both teams have been in fine touch and this is so big, the MCC is urging members to turn up early or risk being locked out.

Why to watch: Collingwood's all-round defensive pressure against Carlton's midfield and small forwards who are capable of some quite special football.

We think: Really hard to choose, and while the Blues were outstanding in beating Geelong, the Magpies will place them under a lot more pressure. Collingwood by six

WEST COAST v FREMANTLE, Subiaco, Sunday, 2.40pm (WST)

Storyline: For all the talk of the Dockers being the junior partner in Western Australia, they have won their last five against the Eagles. And the boys from the wharf are certainly looking more likely finalists than the toffs from Subiaco.

Why to watch: More likely to lead to on-field violence than the Showdown. Fremantle plays an attractive and attacking brand of footy that neutrals are starting to enjoy watching.

We think: Dockers are in better form, have more match-winners and are on the march. This will make it six straight. Fremantle by 22