Geelong returns to the MCG this weekend for another blockbuster clash, as they prepare to take on Carlton this Sunday afternoon.
The Cats are coming off a dramatic victory on Easter Monday against Hawthorn, stringing together three consecutive wins to solidify their position in the top eight on the ladder.
But the challenge will not be an easy one this weekend, facing a Carlton team that is gaining momentum after two strong wins in a row.
With a number of impressive players and some key features in their game plan, check out all the big things to watch this weekend below, proudly presented by Deakin University.
Ladder
Carlton: 13th (2-4)
Geelong: 6th (4-2)
Points For
Carlton - 524
Geelong - 589
Points Against
Carlton - 429
Geelong - 462
Deakin Performance Stat of the Week - Carlton's Intercept Prowess
One area that Carlton have excelled in this year is their intercepting down back, spearheaded by key defender Jacob Weitering.
As a team, the Blues rank third in the competition for total intercepts in 2025 collecting an average of 66.5 per games.
Weitering sits second in the AFL for total intercepts so far this year, closely followed by Mitch McGovern (24th) and Jack Silvagni (27th).
In terms of intercept marks, Weitering also sits second in the league for that statistic, again closely followed by Silvagni (17th), Tom De Koning, Nick Haynes and McGovern (29th).
| PLAYER | INTERCEPTS (AFL RANK) |
INTERCEPT MARKS (AFL RANK) |
| Jacob Weitering | 53 (2nd) | 24 (2nd) |
| Mitch McGovern | 36 (24th) | 11 (29th) |
| Jack Silvagni | 35 (27th) | 13 (17th) |
Nullifying George Hewett
When considering the weapons that Carlton have through the middle, most will usually focus on the likes of Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh.
But it has been a more underrated on-baller that has lead the way in 2025, with George Hewett ranking among the competition's elite in a number of different stats.
Through the first six games, Hewett has accumulated 25 disposals or more in each match, averaging over 30 disposals per game which ranks sixth in the AFL.
Along with his ball winning ability, Hewett also ranks third in the AFL for contested possessions, third for clearances and second for tackles, all while going at an impressive 72% disposal efficiency.
He is also able to have an impact moving forward, ranked 11th in the league for score involvements through the opening stretch of the season.
The Midfield Battle
The battle through the midfield extends further than just George Hewett, with Max Holmes and Bailey Smith set to square off with Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh in an exciting battle.
As a team Carlton rank first in the AFL for total clearances so far in 2025, helping them to generate the second most inside 50 entries of any team across the opening six weeks.
The Blues also lead the league in contested possessions, winning that battle in five of their first six games. This is lead by Hewett (third in the AFL), Tom De Koning (sixth), Adam Cerra and Patrick Cripps (tied 16th).
Geelong have been equally as impressive in 2025, ranked fourth in the AFL for contested possessions this year.
