Today's AFL Best Bets: Picks, Predictions and Odds (Sunday 07/19 Round)

When Essendon Bombers clash with the Greater Western Sydney Giants at Marvel Stadium, the stage is set for a defensive showdown. Essendon has struggled offensively in their last five games, averaging a modest 55.6 points overall and 61.6 points at home, while Greater Western Sydney has shown defensive solidity, conceding an average of 86.2 points overall and 83.4 points on the road. With the Bombers averaging just 9 targets on goal at home and the Giants' stingy defense limiting opposition shots on goal, the likelihood of a high-scoring affair diminishes. Considering these recent trends, backing the 'Under 90.5' in the Totals H2 market appears to be a prudent choice as both teams are likely to stifle each other's attacking forays, resulting in a lower-scoring contest.

Gold Coast Suns vs Western Bulldogs : Over 39.5 team_totals_h1 (-116)

Alright, footy fans, let's break down why hitting the 'Over 39.5' on the Western Bulldogs' first-half team total is a savvy play in their clash against the Gold Coast Suns at People First Stadium. The Bulldogs have been firing on all cylinders lately, averaging a solid 72 points over their last five games. When playing away, they've been relentless in attack, chalking up an average of 21.6 shots at goal and 10.6 target goals per game. On the flip side, the Suns have been leaking points at home, conceding an average of 88.2 points in their last five games at People First Stadium. Their overall points against average sits at 102.8, making them vulnerable to the Bulldogs' potent offense. With the Bulldogs' sharpshooting and the Suns' defensive vulnerabilities, expect the Dogs to snag a healthy first-half total, potentially putting up a cricket score before the halftime siren.

Essendon Bombers vs Greater Western Sydney Giants : Under 90.5 totals_h1 (-120)

When Essendon Bombers take on Greater Western Sydney Giants at Marvel Stadium, the stage is set for a defensive showdown. In their last 5 games, Essendon has struggled to find their scoring rhythm, averaging just 55.6 points overall and a mere 61.6 points at home. Moreover, they have faced solid defensive efforts, conceding an average of 98.8 points overall and 112.6 points at home. On the flip side, the Giants have been more consistent in their scoring, averaging 84 points overall and 83.2 points away. However, they've been disciplined in defense, allowing only 86.2 points overall and 83.4 points away. With Essendon's offensive struggles and both teams showing defensive prowess, the under 90.5 total points in the first half seems like a prudent bet, backed by the recent trends and records.

Richmond Tigers vs Hawthorn Hawks : Under 90.5 totals_h2 (-119)

Folks, when it comes to the clash between the Richmond Tigers and the Hawthorn Hawks at the hallowed MCG, the numbers paint a clear picture. The Tigers, known for their defensive prowess, have been holding their opponents to an average of 80.6 points in their last five home games. Combine that with their stingy average of only 7.6 behinds conceded, and you have a team that knows how to restrict scoring opportunities. On the flip side, the Hawks have been solid on the road, allowing just 79.8 points per game. With both teams boasting strong defensive records and the total line set at 90.5, the smart money seems to be on the 'Under.' Expect a hard-fought battle with both sides grinding it out, making every snag a goal hard-earned.

Essendon Bombers vs Greater Western Sydney Giants : Over 17.5 team_totals_q1 (-116)

When Essendon Bombers clash with Greater Western Sydney Giants at Marvel Stadium, the stage is set for a high-octane opening quarter. Essendon, in their last five home games, have been relentless in attack, racking up an average of 18.8 shots on goal and 9 target goals per game. This lethal forward line is hungry for early success. Meanwhile, Greater Western Sydney Giants have shown vulnerability on the road, conceding an average of 83.4 points in their last five away games. With Essendon's offensive prowess and Greater Western Sydney's defensive struggles, the Over 17.5 team total for Essendon in the first quarter seems like a tantalizing bet. Expect the Bombers to come out firing, looking to snag an early lead and set the tone for a high-scoring affair.