The story so far: Melbourne's bubble burst last week, while the Dogs' running game ground to a halt against the Saints.

Why to watch: Brad Green promised all-out attack from the Demons and the Bulldogs know no other way (except against the Saint).

We think: Looking forward to Melbourne taking them on, but the Demons lack the muscle to take it to the Dogs for four quarters. The in-form Petterd is a huge loss for the Demons, while Boyd is a massive inclusion for the Bulldogs.

Bulldogs by 23 points

ESSENDON v PORT ADELAIDE, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 2.10pm

The story so far: The Bombers righted the ship against the Hawks, while Port's barnstorming final quarter in the Showdown was inspiring.

Why to watch: If the Dons get on any sort of roll, this will be a test for Port's new-found defensive grittiness. Are Gumbleton and Hurley the new Lucas and Lloyd?

We think: Home ground advantage may just swing it towards the Bombers. But it will be tight.

Essendon by 13 points

WEST COAST v HAWTHORN, Subiaco, 1.10pm (WST)

The story so far: Two awful teams, neither of which has won a last quarter this year.

Why to watch: The Hawks have talked the talk this week and have promised to atone. Let's see.

We think: If Naitanui and Cox get on top in the ruck, it's six straight losses for the Hawks.

West Coast by 16

COLLINGWOOD v NORTH MELBOURNE, MCG, Saturday, 7.10pm

The story so far: The Pies are imposing themselves on the competition, but are they peaking too early once again? Two straight wins for the Roos and the trials of round two seem a long time ago.

Why to watch: Master (Malthouse) versus pupil (Scott). The tactics early doors will be fascinating.

We think: The Pies are playing too well to tip against them.

Collingwood by 24

BRISBANE v FREMANTLE, Gabba, Saturday 7.10pm

The story so far: It is becoming increasingly clear that there are two versions of the LIons - home and away. Thankfully for Brisbane, this one is at home.

Why to watch: Big test for the emerging Dockers. But they seem to fear nobody.

We think: The longest road trip in the AFL faces the Dockers just six days after a bruising derby. This might make it too tough.

Brisbane by 25

GEELONG v SYDNEY, Skilled Stadium, Sunday, 1.10pm

The story so far: Both teams have lost their no.1 ruckman. Shane Mumford could have been rucking for the Cats, but will do so for the Swans instead. Expect a frosty welcome home.

Why to watch: The Swans have surprised everyone including - we suspect - themselves. This is their biggest test of the season.

We think: Cats haven't lost at home for three years. They're the safe tip.

Geelong by 27

ADELAIDE v RICHMOND, AAMI Stadium, Sunday, 4.10 (CST)

The story so far: Two winless teams. Injuries and age have cruelled the Crows, the Tigers simply lack talent.

Why to watch: AAMI Stadium might never have been emptier for a Crows game.

We think: The Crows were not as bad as the Tigers last week, so go with the form team.

Adelaide by 21

ST KILDA v CARLTON, Etihad Stadium, Monday, 7.20pm

The story so far: The Saints showed enormous grit last week to beat the Dogs. The Blues failed miserably against the Pies.

Why to watch: Monday night footy. The perfect start to the working week. Hopefully the Saints won't ruin the spectacle.

We think: The Saints will put the clamps on Judd, perhaps hurt him the other way. They're just so hard to beat under the closed Etihad Stadium roof.

St Kilda by 17