FREMANTLE v COLLINGWOOD, Subiaco, Friday, 6.40 WST

The story so far: The two best teams in the competition, each with one loss. The Pies were expected to contend this year, but the Dockers? Not so much.

Why to watch: Second v First, in prime time and (shock horror!) live on the telly into Victoria. To quote Terrell Owens, "You;d better bring the popcorn, 'cause it's going to be a show."

We think: Toss of the coin job, but the Dockers have been irrepressible at home and that might just be enough, although the Pies do travel well and were unbeaten outside Victoria last year.

Fremantle by 4

WESTERN BULLDOGS v SYDNEY, Manuka Oval, Saturday 2.10pm

The story so far: The Dogs have been shakier than we imagined, but found a way to win last week when looking down and out. The Swans were belted last week and injuries and suspensions are starting to hit just as their draw gets tough.

Why to watch: Big, bad, bustling Bazza against his old club for the first time. Paul Roos said there will be no niggle, but has he told the players?

We think: Bad week for the Swans to lose both their recognised ruckmen. If the Dogs get first use of the footy, it may be game over quite quickly.

Western Bulldogs by 14

MELBOURNE v WEST COAST, MCG, Saturday, 2.10pm

The story so far: The Demons lost the game but few admirers last week as they continue to play an entertaining brand of footy. West Coast was unimpressive despite beating the Hawks.

Why to watch: Rising stars Nic Naitanui, Tom Scully and now, Jack Watts all in the same game. The Dees continue to cop flak for taking Watts over Naitanui, so let's see what happens this week.

We think: West Coast are shocking travellers, while the Demons have played some great footy at the MCG. They'll be 4-4 by 5pm Saturday night.

Melbourne by 21

BRISBANE LIONS v GEELONG

The story so far: After a 4-0 opening, the Lions have dropped three straight and the injuries are starting to bite. Geelong, meanwehile appears back to its imperious best.

Why to watch: Brown, Fevola, Black, Ablett, Scarlett, Selwood and a host of others on the ground at the same time. How will Mathew Stokes fare in his first game after after a suspension for cocaine possession?

We think: The Cats are playing too well and could be in the top two by the end of the weekend, so won't let this slip.

Geelong by 19

NORTH MELBOURNE v ADELAIDE, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 7.10pm

The story so far: The Crows finally broke through last week after a withering final quarter against hapless Richmond. The Kangas lacked class, strength and experience and were put to the sword by Collingwood.

Why to watch: Adelaide finally started to run and carry last week. The same ferals who wanted Neil Craig's head on a platter last week will be talking finals if the Crows get up here.

We think: North should be fitter and faster.

North Melbourne by 14

RICHMOND v HAWTHORN, MCG, Sunday, 1.10pm

The story so far: Two terrible teams. Richmond led early in the final quarter last week, yet lost by 52 points. Go figure. The Hawks at least had a crack last week.

Why to watch: Good ins for the Hawks - Mitchell, Franklin and Burgoyne - as the side finally starts to resemble that for which high hopes were held at the start of the year.

We think: Won't be the canter some are predicting but the Hawks look a bit better across the park.

Hawthorn by 20

PORT ADELAIDE v CARLTON, AAMI Stadium, 2.40pm CST

The story so far: Both are coming off great wins last week - Port from behind over the Bombers, while Carlton was in brilliant touch against St Kilda.

Why to watch: You'd think both teams will be battling for places in the lower reaches of the eight, so while too early to be called an elimination final, the result will be important later in the year.

We think: Hard to pick, but perhaps Port because it's at home.

Port by 7

ST KILDA v ESSENDON, Etihad Stadium, 4.40pm

The story so far: 'Saints Footy' came a cropper on Monday night, as the Blues put their skates on. The Dons couldn't put Port away when they had the chance and paid the price.

Why to watch: Essendon has the pace to worry the Saints, just as the Blues. How will the Saints counter this?

We think: The Dons were the first team to beat the Saints last year, but the Saints will lift for this. They haven't played well for nearly a month.

St Kilda by 18