Here are our AFL picks for Thursday 27 August 2026. Our model likes 6 bets here. The one it likes most is Jeremy Howe (Collingwood) Over 11.5 player_kicks_over, priced at -130 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.

Jeremy Howe (Collingwood) Over 11.5 player_kicks_over (-130)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to locking in a player prop bet, you want a reliable, consistent performer. Look no further than Jeremy Howe of the Collingwood Magpies. This defensive gun isn't just about shutting down opponents; he's a key link in launching their attacking plays. With a model predicting him to hit 14 kicks against the Western Bulldogs, comfortably surpassing the line of 11.5, the numbers are in our favor. Despite playing away at the MCG, Howe's footy IQ and ability to read the play make him a prime candidate to rack up those crucial possessions. Backed by a model edge of 19.0%, there's a strong likelihood he'll split the middle with his kicks tally. So, when it's crunch time, trust Howe to deliver the goods and snag you a win in the 'Player Kicks Over' market.

Bailey Dale (Western Bulldogs) Over 4.5 player_marks_over (-139)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

Bailey Dale is primed to make his mark in the upcoming clash between the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood Magpies at the iconic MCG. Over his last five home games, Dale has been a consistent aerial threat, averaging 5 marks per game. When facing Collingwood at home, he's snagged an average of 2.7 marks, but overall against them, he's elevated that to 5.4 marks. What sets Dale apart is his ability to take contested marks, averaging 0.2 per game lately, showcasing his aerial prowess in tight situations. With an overall average of 5.6 marks in his recent outings, Dale has shown the capability to hit the over 4.5 marks line against the Magpies. Expect him to soar above the competition and provide ample marking opportunities to cash in on the 'Player Marks Over' market.

Trent Rivers (Melbourne) Over 11.5 player_kicks_over (-122)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to pinpointing a player poised to light up the field with precise kicks, Trent Rivers of the Melbourne Demons stands out like a beacon on a dark night. Hosting the Carlton Blues at the iconic MCG, Rivers is primed to showcase his impeccable skills in his backyard. With a model prediction averaging 14.2 kicks per game and a solid hit rate, the odds are stacked in our favor. Rivers thrives under the Melbourne sky, and facing off against Carlton only adds fuel to his fire. The numbers don't lie, painting a picture of a player who consistently surpasses the 11.5 kicks line. So, when you're eyeing the 'Player Kicks Over' market, trust in Rivers to deliver the goods and fill your bet slip with confidence.

Adam Cerra (Carlton) Under 21.5 Disposals (-118)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

Adam Cerra, the maestro in Carlton's midfield, faces a tough challenge away at the MCG against Melbourne. The numbers paint a vivid picture: although Cerra boasts an average of 18.6 disposals in his last five away games, he faces a daunting task against Melbourne, where his average dips to 24.7 disposals. With a model predicting him to tally just 18.9 disposals and a recent hit rate of 5 out of 7 unders in away games, the under 21.5 disposals bet for Cerra seems like a shrewd play. Melbourne's strong defensive pressure and Cerra's historical performance against them indicate a potential struggle to find his usual rhythm. This bet isn't just a shot in the dark; it's a calculated move based on solid data and matchup analysis.

Jack Viney (Melbourne) Over 3.5 player_clearances_over (-119)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to the midfield battle at the MCG between the Melbourne Demons and the Carlton Blues, Jack Viney is poised to be a pivotal figure. With a model prediction of 5.1 clearances, showcasing a significant 17.6% edge, Viney is primed to dominate the contest. At home, in front of the passionate Melbourne faithful, Viney thrives on extracting the ball from the congestion and setting his team on the front foot. The stats speak volumes here; his consistency in hitting the over on clearances makes him a reliable option for this bet. Expect Viney to dig deep, win the hard ball, and surpass the 3.5 clearance line comfortably. Betting on Viney to rack up the clearances is not just a numbers game; it's a reflection of his on-field impact and importance to the Demons' success.

Lachlan Bramble (Western Bulldogs) Over 3.5 player_marks_over (-119)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

Alright, footy fans, let's talk about why Lachlan Bramble is a prime pick for the 'Marks Over' market in the upcoming Western Bulldogs vs. Collingwood clash at the hallowed MCG. Bramble, the dynamic Bulldog, has been a marking machine in his last five outings, averaging a solid 4.2 marks per game on home turf. Even more impressive? When facing off against Collingwood, he's been snagging an average of 3.8 marks per game. With the line set at 3.5, Bramble's recent form suggests he's primed to surpass that mark. Keep an eye on his contested marks too, as his numbers have been on the rise. The data paints a picture of a player who's in sync with the aerial contest and ready to dominate the skies in front of the home crowd. So, back Bramble to soar above that 3.5 mark and make his mark on the game!

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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