Big forwards put arses on seats, but defenders win premierships.
It’s a mantra many coaches have adopted over the years as they try to reach the AFL’s Holy Grail, and whilst a great team often has balance across all lines, how well the back six performs as a unit is often the decisive factor in a tilt at the flag.
As such, it is through that lens that we sit and analyse the contenders as we hit the final ten games of the home and away season.
Who has the best back six right now? Who has the potential to get better? And who is up against it? We’re going top have a look at all teams in contention for finals and a wildcard spot this season to find out who can rely on their back six.
This is just the introduction – the remainder of this article is for our members. They support me, and I provide for them. It’s a good deal.
Oh… a Mongrel paywall… the worst of all paywalls. We’re all in on the 2026 AFL season. Player articles, stats, awards, game coverage. Dump the mainstream lip service and dive into articles like this – you will never look back. If you don’t want to, that’s fine. I consider it your loss as we get into the grind of the season, and you’re stuck with the stuff that’s frustrated you for years.
