Collingwood promised much in 2011 but ultimately failed to deliver. LIAM QUINN writes that even though the stage is set for continued success, this was an opportunity lost.

Twelve months ago, this wasn't supposed to happen. This season was supposed to belong to Collingwood. But instead, as LIAM GETREU writes, it is Geelong that has been elevated into a dynasty. And it could be just the beginning.

So many imponderables, only one winner. TEAM BPL examines the AFL Grand Final, tries to sort the important facts from the irrelevant, and comes up with its tip for the 2011 premier team.  

Geelong's players are healthier (with one notable exception) and their recent form has been more impressive than Collingwood's so, says WAYNE CAREY in his Grand Final preview: It's the Cats for mine.

In spite of the nay-sayers, SIMON MORAWETZ believes Collingwood deserve to be favourites for Saturday's Grand Final.

In BPL's first foray into the world of poetry, DAMIAN BALASSONE, the viceroy of verse, pens an ode to the Grand Final.  

After 382 lead-up matches, the two AFL grand finalists have been decided. And with only six more sleeps till the Big Dance, LIAM GETREU previews the Collingwood-Geelong finale we’ve yearned for all season.

CHARLES HAPPELL provides 11 random observations about preliminary final weekend, including Hawthorn's litany of last-quarter mistakes, and the big week that lies ahead.

TEAM BPL reckons Collingwood's preliminary final preparation has been less than ideal while Geelong's veterans could be found out if the temperature soars on Saturday.