But there is a bit to look forward to in the first round of next year's NAB Cup, which after all the hysteria over a clash with the AC/DC concert, fits in quite well over two weekends, starting 12 February.

Most noteworthy is the Sydney-Carlton clash at Blacktown on the second Saturday night, which takes the AFL's mission into the west of Sydney another step further.

Rest assured, the AFL will ensure a full-house for this clash even if it has to resort to giving away double-passes with every Whopper sold at the local Hungry Jacks. With a national TV audience watching, the AFL can't afford anything other than a packed house.

From a football point of view, the opportunity to play a home game first up with the prospect of a home semi-final as well, might just tempt the Swans into taking the pre-season more seriously than they traditionally have.

The opening weekend also throws up a mini-showdown between the Crows and the Power and a master-versus-apprentice match-up, with Hawthorn taking on Richmond, now coached by Alastair Clarkson's former lieutenant, Damian Hardwick.

We also get a semi-final re-match, with the Bulldogs and the Lions in Canberra. Fox Sports would be delighted to get the first opportunity to look at Brendan Fevola in a Lions jumper and Barry Hall in the red, white and blue.

Indeed, the relatively busy trade period just completed could heighten interest in the NAB Cup because more than anything it is a showcase for clubs to display their new players.

Once AC/DC has strutted its stuff, Melbourne gets a taste of footy in the second week. St Kilda and Collingwood on the Friday night is another finals re-match, meaning healthy ratings and a decent crowd.

The Sunday afternoon Geelong-North Melbourne clash will give us an early look at what new coach Brad Scott is planning for the Kangaroos. Rest assured, they'll be up and about, which is the last thing Geelong, which will be about a month behind in preparation, would want.

Hawthorn played Carlton in a similar situation this year, lost four players to injury and never really recovered.