The Australian Football League (AFL) has long been the pinnacle of Australian sports, with passionate fans, fierce rivalries, and incredible talent on display every season. One of the most significant aspects of the AFL season is the AFL ladder, which determines the rankings of teams as they battle it out for the coveted premiership. As we move deeper into the 2025 AFL season, the AFL ladder is beginning to show some interesting patterns, and it’s clear that several teams are making a statement in their pursuit of glory.
This article will provide an updated look at the current AFL ladder, offer insights into the teams that are making their mark, and dive deep into the storylines shaping the premiership race this season. We’ll also explore what it takes for teams to move up the AFL ladder and the key matchups that could alter the standings.
Understanding the AFL Ladder
Before diving into the current AFL ladder rankings, it’s important to understand how the ladder works and what factors contribute to a team’s position. The AFL ladder is updated throughout the season, with each team’s position determined by their wins, losses, and percentage (a measure of the margin by which a team wins or loses).
- Points: Teams earn 4 points for a win, 2 points for a draw, and 0 points for a loss.
- Percentage: Percentage is used to break ties between teams that have the same number of points. It is calculated by dividing the total points scored by a team by the total points conceded, then multiplying by 100.
The team at the top of the AFL ladder at the end of the home-and-away season is awarded the minor premiership, while the top eight teams qualify for the AFL Finals. The final series determines the AFL premiership, with the grand final being the ultimate test of a team’s strength.
Key Insights into the 2025 AFL Ladder
As we progress through the 2025 season, the AFL ladder is providing some exciting and surprising developments. Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders and the key factors that could determine how the ladder shapes up as the season progresses.
1. Top Contenders for the 2025 AFL Premiership
The race for the AFL premiership in 2025 is heating up, with several teams vying for top honors. Teams like the Melbourne Demons, Geelong Cats, and Richmond Tigers have historically been strong, but new contenders like the Western Bulldogs and Sydney Swans have emerged as serious threats. Each of these teams brings its own unique strengths to the table, and their performances are crucial to determining the AFL ladder by the end of the season.
- Melbourne Demons: As one of the top teams in the competition, Melbourne has continued to impress with their aggressive style of play. The Demons’ high-pressure game and disciplined defense make them formidable opponents, and they are well-positioned to make a strong push toward the top of the AFL ladder.
- Geelong Cats: A consistent performer in recent years, Geelong has shown that experience and depth can take a team a long way. With a mix of seasoned veterans and young talent, the Cats are always in the conversation when it comes to the AFL ladder’s upper echelons.
- Richmond Tigers: Richmond’s resurgence has been one of the more exciting storylines in recent seasons. After a period of dominance, the Tigers experienced a bit of a dip, but their return to form in 2025 has solidified their place as a top contender. Richmond’s fast-paced, high-pressure style makes them a dangerous team in the finals race.
- Western Bulldogs: With a young, dynamic list, the Western Bulldogs are starting to reach their potential. Their exciting attacking style, combined with a solid midfield, makes them a team to watch closely as the season progresses. If they continue to improve, they could climb further up the AFL ladder.
- Sydney Swans: The Swans have always been a well-coached, disciplined team, but in 2025, they have added a new layer of attacking flair. Their balance of attack and defense has seen them climb the AFL ladder, and they could be dark horses for the premiership.
2. The Importance of the Midfield in AFL Ladder Rankings
One of the most critical aspects of AFL football is the midfield, and it often serves as the deciding factor in the overall performance of a team. A strong midfield can dominate possession, set up scoring opportunities, and control the tempo of the game. As we look at the AFL ladder rankings in 2025, it’s clear that the best teams are those with a powerful, well-rounded midfield.
Teams like Melbourne and Richmond have been able to control the AFL ladder by winning the contested ball and using their midfielders’ clean skills to break through opposition defenses. These teams rely heavily on their midfield to both defend and attack, and this balance is what helps them secure valuable wins that push them up the AFL ladder.
3. The Role of Key Players in AFL Ladder Success
The 2025 AFL season has been marked by standout individual performances that have significantly impacted their team’s position on the ladder. The influence of key players cannot be overstated, and teams that rely on their superstars to lead the charge have often found themselves higher up the AFL ladder.
- Max Gawn (Melbourne): As one of the premier ruckmen in the league, Gawn’s ability to dominate the stoppages and set up play is vital to Melbourne’s success. His influence in the midfield and his ability to create clearances has been a driving force in the Demons’ strong performances.
- Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong): Dangerfield has been a mainstay in the AFL for years, and his impact in the middle of the ground is still as strong as ever. His ability to break through tackles, win contested ball, and create scoring opportunities makes him a central figure in Geelong’s rise up the AFL ladder.
- Dustin Martin (Richmond): Martin’s unpredictable and dynamic style of play continues to be a game-changer for Richmond. Whether it’s his ability to win contested ball or break away from the pack with his explosive runs, Martin is a key player in Richmond’s push for the top of the ladder.
- Marcus Bontempelli (Western Bulldogs): As one of the league’s best midfielders, Bontempelli’s poise and class have been instrumental in the Bulldogs’ strong season. His leadership and ability to control the game have propelled the Bulldogs into finals contention and a potential rise up the AFL ladder.
4. Upcoming Fixtures That Could Alter the AFL Ladder
Looking ahead, several key fixtures could drastically alter the AFL ladder. In a competition as competitive as the AFL, any team can win on any given day, and the outcome of these high-stakes matchups will likely have a major impact on the standings. Key fixtures to keep an eye on include:
- Melbourne vs. Richmond: This is always a hard-fought battle, and with both teams near the top of the AFL ladder, this clash could be a decisive moment in the race for the minor premiership.
- Geelong vs. Western Bulldogs: A clash between two of the top teams, this game could have significant implications for the ladder. Both teams play a fast, aggressive style of football, and it will be interesting to see which team comes out on top.
- Sydney vs. Melbourne: A crucial game for both teams as they jockey for position on the AFL ladder. Sydney’s newfound attacking flair will be tested against Melbourne’s strong defensive unit, making this a must-watch matchup.
Conclusion
As we continue through the 2025 AFL season, the AFL ladder will undoubtedly continue to shift as teams battle it out for supremacy. While some teams have already established themselves as premiership contenders, others are still in the mix, and it’s anyone’s game. With key players stepping up, midfield dominance playing a crucial role, and some blockbuster matchups on the horizon, the rest of the season promises to be an exciting ride.
For fans, the AFL ladder provides a clear snapshot of where their team stands in the race for the premiership. For players and coaches, it serves as a constant reminder of the work needed to climb higher and secure a spot in the finals. As we look ahead, it’s clear that the journey to the 2025 AFL premiership will be filled with drama, passion, and some unforgettable moments.
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