Today's AFL Best Bets: Picks, Predictions and Odds for ALL Games on Thursday 07/23

When it comes to the Greater Western Sydney Giants hosting the Sydney Swans at ENGIE Stadium, the data paints a clear picture for a low-scoring affair. The Giants have been solid defensively in their last five home games, allowing an average of 83.6 points against. Their opponents, the Swans, have struggled to convert opportunities on the road, averaging just 84.2 points for. With the Giants' home games seeing an average of 29.8 shots at goal and the Swans managing only 25 shots at goal away, it's evident that both teams are likely to find scoring chances hard to come by. Factor in the Giants' recent average of 15.8 target goals at home and the Swans' 12.8 target goals away, and it becomes clear why the under 92.5 total points is a tantalizing bet for this matchup.

Greater Western Sydney Giants vs Sydney Swans : Under 91.5 totals_h1 (-111)

When it comes to the Greater Western Sydney Giants facing off against the Sydney Swans, the stage is set for a defensive showdown. The Giants have shown consistency in limiting their opponents' scoring, holding them to an average of 80.4 points in their last 5 games. On the other side, the Swans have been sturdy defensively as well, conceding an average of 91.4 points over the same period. With both teams maintaining a tight defensive line and struggling to consistently hit high scoring numbers, it's reasonable to expect a first-half total under 91.5 points. The Giants' average of 79.4 points for and the Swans' 78.2 points for in their last 5 games further support the likelihood of a lower-scoring affair. So, expect a hard-fought battle with the scoreboard reflecting a tight contest.

Fremantle Dockers vs West Coast Eagles : Over 15.5 team_totals_q1 (-110)

Alright footy punters, let's break down this Friday night clash between the Fremantle Dockers and the West Coast Eagles at Optus Stadium in Perth. The West Coast Eagles, known for their attacking style, have been firing on all cylinders away from home. Over their last five away games, they've been averaging a solid 22.6 shots at goal and 9.8 target goals per game. This offensive prowess has seen them notch an average of 68.2 points per game on the road. On the other side, the Dockers have been leaking points at home, conceding an average of 65.8 points in their last five games at Optus Stadium. With the Eagles' potent attack and the Dockers' defensive vulnerabilities, it's a recipe for early scoring. Backing the West Coast Eagles to surpass 15.5 points in the first quarter looks like a juicy play for this matchup.

Fremantle Dockers vs West Coast Eagles : West Coast Eagles 10.5 spreads_q2 (-116)

Alright footy punters, let's dive into this juicy West Australian showdown between the Fremantle Dockers and the West Coast Eagles at Optus Stadium. Recent form tells us the Dockers have been solid at home, averaging a healthy 93.6 points per game in their last five. On the flip side, the Eagles have struggled on the road, averaging just 68.2 points away from home. Defensively, Fremantle has been leaky, conceding an average of 65.8 points in their last five home games, while the Eagles have been even worse, allowing 92 points per game on the road. With the Eagles boasting a solid margin of -24 in their last five overall games, taking them with a +10.5 spread against the Dockers seems like a tantalizing bet. Expect the Eagles to soar and keep this one close, making that spread look very achievable.

Hawthorn Hawks vs Essendon Bombers : Hawthorn Hawks -13.5 spreads_q4 (-110)

The Hawthorn Hawks are flying high, especially at the MCG, where they've been making their nest a fortress. Over their last five home games, they've been ruthless, averaging a solid 25-point margin and boasting an impressive 102 points for on average. Their attacking prowess, with an average of 58.8 inside 50s and 31 shots at goal per game, is set to trouble Essendon’s defense. On the flip side, the Essendon Bombers have been struggling on the road, with a dismal -42 average margin in their last five outings. Their offensive output has been lackluster, managing just 55.6 points for on average. With only 41 inside 50s and 18.2 shots at goal per game, it's hard to see them matching Hawthorn's scoring prowess. Considering these trends, backing Hawthorn Hawks to cover the -13.5 spread in the fourth quarter seems like a smart play for footy punters.