Brisbane Lions vs Carlton Blues Prediction: Lions to rekindle their trophy hopes

In a rematch of last year's preliminary final, Brisbane is once again eager to defeat the Blues. As they enter this opening match, the Lions have favorable odds for victory, while the Carlton Blues find themselves positioned as the underdogs.

After narrowly missing out on ending their 20-year Premiership drought last season, the Brisbane Lions are poised to contend for the ultimate prize once again in 2024. Their close defeat to the Magpies in the Grand Final (90-86) last year indicates that they are on the right track and can now compete at the highest level, even at the home of footy. The Brisbane Lions had a relatively quiet off-season, which may be advantageous following their Grand Final appearance. They are counting on natural progression from young talents like Kiddy Coleman, Darcy Wilmot, Cam Rayner, and several others. Additionally, the return of Will Ashcroft, who missed last year's finals series due to an ACL injury, is expected to bolster the team in 2024. In the pre-season, the Brisbane Lions demonstrated good form with a victory over the Gold Coast Suns in match simulation and a 25-point triumph against the Sydney Swans in their official practice match. Hugh McCluggage, notably, showcased impressive performance in the latter game, taking on more inside mid minutes following a somewhat subdued year in 2023 while playing on the wing.

Carlton Blues have seamlessly carried forward both the positive and negative aspects from their 2023 season into the pre-season of 2024, as hinted in their Season Preview. In their Community Series clash against the Demons, the Blues' forward line delivered an impressive performance, with Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow each scoring three goals. Patrick Cripps also chipped in with a goal in a game where the Blues tallied 10 goals and only 3 behinds.

Defensively, however, Carlton faced challenges during their pre-season game, primarily due to an inexperienced defensive lineup. Coach Michael Voss is likely to have implemented some adjustments for the upcoming game, but concerns persist about the team's defensive depth. While the Blues can generate scoring opportunities, the lack of substantial defensive pressure may pose difficulties in keeping up with the high-flying Lions.

Notably, Carlton will be without key players Caleb Marchbank, Sam Walsh, and Jacob Weitering until at least the round two bye, with their expected returns falling within that 15-day break. Jesse Motlop is set to miss at least the Opening Round, and Jack Martin's return is anticipated post the bye.

The Opening Round boasts some thrilling matchups, and this one is no exception. The Blues are determined to avenge their loss to the Lions in last season's prelim, yet accomplishing this feat won't be easy, considering the Lions' impressive 14-game winning streak at the Gabba. The Gabba has indeed evolved into a formidable stronghold in recent seasons. While it's the first significant challenge of the year for both teams and surprises are possible, it seems highly improbable that the Blues can secure an upset victory. Without Walsh's dynamic presence in the midfield and their defensive anchor Weitering, I anticipate the Lions gaining the upper hand in the midfield and their key forwards putting up a substantial score.