Listening to SEN on the way to work today, all I seemed to hear was that the Adelaide Crows would jump into the eight this year. So I took an in-depth look at their list.
Forward line
A fully fit Taylor Walker with a pre-season under his belt will do wonders for the Crows. He came back late last year but wasn’t anywhere near his best.
One of the most exciting small forwards in the league is the ageing Charlie Cameron, but he is inconsistent. Josh Jenkins is also an exciting prospect who will take a big jump this year; his strength and agility are among the league’s best.
James Podsiadly could be a depth player this year if things go right for the Crows, with injury-prone Tom Lynch hopefully taking his spot.
Midfield
Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield are among the top 15 midfielders in the league, but the talent drops away after that. Scott Thompson is going backwards significantly every year, while David Mackay is a solid contributor every week.
They are relying on youngsters like Brad Crouch, who many are tipping for a break out year. His brother Matt is another very good young player.
Ruck stocks
Sam Jacobs is probably the best ruckman in the league and a star of the competition.
They now also have a good back-up option in Luke Lowden from the Hawks.
Defence
Daniel Talia is as good as any key defender in the league. He doesn’t provide as much run as others, but no forward will beat him in a one-on-one situation.
After having a stand-out year last year, Brodie Smith is one of the best half backmen in the league, while Matthew Jaensch is an underrated player for what he offers. Their main problem in defence is their second and third defenders, Andy Otten and probably Luke Brown, who will both get beaten by the best in the league.
Tip
Crows to finish sixth and have a good year after a disastrous one last season.
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