Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
The return of Will Day has transformed Hawthorn into a genuine AFL premiership contender, while Richmond coach Adem Yze is facing increasing scrutiny as the Tigers search for an identifiable playing style. Those were among the biggest talking points ahead of Round 16, with discussion also centring on Tim English's role at the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood's defensive blueprint.
With the season entering its decisive phase, several clubs are attempting to fine tune their game plans before the race to September intensifies.
Day driving Hawthorn's midfield surge
Hawthorn's midfield has improved dramatically since Day returned from a shoulder injury in Round 12.
The Hawks have jumped from 18th in the AFL for points from clearances before his return to second in the competition, highlighting the impact of the star midfielder.
Former Hawthorn champion Jordan Lewis described Day as the club's "missing piece", saying his movement around stoppages creates opportunities for teammates and gives the Hawks a new level of midfield balance.
Lewis also praised Hawthorn's improved defensive structure around stoppages, while Jonathan Brown said the Hawks were now producing damaging clearances rather than simply winning possession.
The emergence of Day alongside co captain Jai Newcombe has strengthened Hawthorn's credentials as a genuine top four and premiership contender.
Questions remain over English's role
Western Bulldogs ruckman Tim English also found himself under the spotlight after spending more time forward than usual against St Kilda.
The positional change came just days after speculation emerged linking English with rival clubs despite being contracted until the end of 2029.
Former Richmond captain Jack Riewoldt questioned why English was used primarily at centre bounces before moving into attack, while Marcus Bontempelli and Matt Kennedy rotated through the ruck around the ground.
Lewis said he supported the tactical experiment as the Bulldogs search for new ways to support Aaron Naughton in the absence of injured key forward Sam Darcy.
Former Geelong champion Tom Hawkins suggested English appeared uncomfortable in the unfamiliar role, while Jonathan Brown believed the move reflected both Naughton's heavy workload and the need to carefully manage English after an injury interrupted season.
Yze under pressure to define Richmond
Richmond coach Adem Yze has also come under increasing scrutiny following the Tigers' disappointing form.
The rebuilding club has won just nine of 60 matches under Yze since the start of 2024 and currently sits near the bottom of the ladder.
Former North Melbourne champion David King said he wanted to see a clearer coaching identity emerge, questioning what Richmond's defining game style had become.
King pointed to Richmond's struggles with defensive pressure and uncontested marks, arguing the Tigers needed to establish at least one clear strength while continuing their rebuild.
Yze has repeatedly acknowledged the impact of injuries throughout the season but remains focused on developing the club's young playing group.
Collingwood finding another way to win
Collingwood's defensive system has become one of the strongest in the AFL despite ongoing concerns about its forward line.
Leigh Montagna said the Magpies were "defending their way to victory", highlighting the club's ability to limit opposition scoring despite conceding a high number of inside 50 entries.
The former St Kilda star questioned whether the approach could deliver a premiership but praised Craig McRae's defensive structure.
Meanwhile, Jordan De Goey's move into a permanent midfield role has produced some of the best football of his career.
Since Round 9, De Goey has averaged more than 26 disposals per game while significantly increasing his score involvements and metres gained.
The improved form has provided valuable support for Nick Daicos through the middle of the ground as Collingwood continues its push for a finals berth.