Here are our AFL picks for Saturday 1 August 2026. Our model likes 6 bets here. The one it likes most is Hawthorn Hawks vs North Melbourne Kangaroos: Under 182.5 Total Points, priced at -111 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.
Hawthorn Hawks vs North Melbourne Kangaroos: Under 182.5 Total Points (-111)
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
When it comes to this clash between Hawthorn Hawks and North Melbourne Kangaroos, the numbers paint a clear picture for a low-scoring affair. The Hawks have been solid defensively, conceding just 65.8 points on average in their last five games overall. Their opponents, the Kangaroos, have struggled to find the big sticks, averaging a mere 68.2 points in the same period. Hawthorn's home form further supports the under bet, with an average of 89.4 points scored but also keeping their opponents to just 76.6 points in their last five games at University of Tasmania Stadium. North Melbourne's lackluster offensive output on the road, averaging only 70 points, indicates they may struggle against a disciplined Hawks defense. With both teams showing a tendency for lower scoring games recently, the under 182.5 points total seems like a prudent wager for this encounter.
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
Alright footy punters, let's break down why backing the Greater Western Sydney Giants to stay under 40.5 points in the first half against Port Adelaide Power is a smart play this weekend. The Giants have been struggling on the road lately, averaging just 83.6 points per game in their last five away matches. Despite their solid inside 50 count, their conversion rate in front of goal has been a bit off, managing only 12.4 goals on average. On the other hand, Port Adelaide has been tough defensively at home, conceding an average of 79.8 points in their last five games at the Adelaide Oval. Their overall points against average of 85.6 shows they can clamp down when it matters. With the Giants facing a stout Power defense and their own scoring inconsistencies, the under 40.5 in the first half looks like a value bet to snag a win on this intriguing AFL matchup.
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
This clash between the Gold Coast Suns and Melbourne Demons sets the stage for a tantalizing defensive battle. The Suns, despite their home advantage at People First Stadium, have been struggling to consistently find the big sticks, averaging just 66 points per game in their last five outings. Facing a robust Melbourne defense that concedes only 83.4 points on average, the Suns might find it tough to break through. On the flip side, the Demons have been solid on the road, holding opponents to 80.6 points while showcasing a potent offense that averages nearly 89 points per game away from home. However, the Suns' defensive resilience, especially at home where they allow an average of 92 points, could stifle Melbourne's scoring opportunities. With the total set at 90.5, the combination of Gold Coast's offensive struggles and Melbourne's disciplined defense makes the 'Under' a compelling play in this matchup.
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
Alright footy fans, let's dive into why you should consider backing the Essendon Bombers to go over 15.5 points in the first quarter against the Adelaide Crows at Marvel Stadium. In their last five home games, the Bombers have been on fire, averaging a whopping 47 Inside50s and 20 Shotsatgoal per game. Their attacking prowess has seen them bag an average of 9.2 Target Goals and 62.8 Points For during this period. Moreover, the Crows have struggled on the road, conceding an average of 74 points in their last five away games and 77.4 points overall. With Essendon's offensive firepower and Adelaide's defensive vulnerabilities, the Bombers are primed to come out firing early and put points on the board. So, expect them to snag goals early and often in this matchup. Time to back the Bombers to light it up in the first quarter!
Gold Coast Suns vs Melbourne Demons: Under 41.5 team_totals_h1 (-111)
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
Alright, footy fans, let's break down why the smart money is on the Gold Coast Suns to stay under 41.5 points in the first half against the Melbourne Demons this Sunday. The Suns have been struggling to find their scoring groove lately, averaging just 66 points over their last five games. At home, their attack hasn't been firing on all cylinders, with an average of 85 points per game but recently dropping to just 66. Facing the Demons' solid defense, conceding only 83.4 points overall, the Suns may find it tough to bag goals. On the other side, Melbourne has been stout on the road, allowing just 80.6 points on average in their last five away matches. With the Suns' recent offensive struggles and the Demons' stingy defense, the under 41.5 for Gold Coast in the first half looks like a savvy play for punters looking to capitalize on these trends.
Essendon Bombers vs Adelaide Crows: Under 52.5 team_totals_h1 (-118)
Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing
When it comes to the Essendon Bombers hosting the Adelaide Crows at Marvel Stadium, the stage is set for a defensive showdown. The Crows have been grinding it out on the road, with an average of 52.8 Inside50s and 22.2 Shotsatgoal in their last 5 away games. On the other hand, the Bombers have struggled at home, conceding an average of 98 points in their last 5 home fixtures. With Adelaide averaging 86.2 points in their recent away clashes, falling short of the 52.5 line seems likely. The Crows' disciplined defense coupled with Essendon's leaky backline could see the first half staying under the mark. Expect a tight battle where both teams fight tooth and nail, making the under an appealing bet for footy punters.
That is the model's read on today's AFL card. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.
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