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

Alright footy punters, let's talk Jeremy Howe. The Collingwood Magpies' aerial maestro is set to soar high when they face the Western Bulldogs at the hallowed MCG. Howe’s average of 14 kicks per game, coupled with a model edge of 19.0%, suggests he's primed to eclipse the line of 11.5 kicks set by the bookies. When Howe takes flight, he's a sight to behold. His ability to intercept and launch devastating counter-attacks is second to none. With the Magpies looking to control the tempo against the Bulldogs, Howe will be instrumental in their game plan. So, if you're chasing some value in the kicks market, backing Howe to go over 11.5 kicks could be a savvy play. The stats and the game situation align perfectly for Howe to make an impact. Get on board and watch him dictate play from the backline.

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

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to marking prowess, Bailey Dale is a standout performer for the Western Bulldogs, especially on home turf. In his last five home games, Dale has been a marking machine, averaging 5 marks per game. Even more compelling is his track record against Collingwood, where he has snagged an impressive average of 2.7 marks. With the Bulldogs facing off against the Magpies at the iconic MCG, Dale will be looking to capitalize on his recent form. His ability to read the play and take contested marks (0.2 per game) sets him apart as a key target in the aerial battles. Considering his overall average of 5.6 marks in the last five games, the Over 4.5 marks line for Bailey Dale seems like a solid bet to back come game day.

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

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to backing a player prop bet, you want someone with the ability to impact the game, and Trent Rivers fits that bill perfectly. Playing at the MCG, the heart of footy in Melbourne, against Carlton, Rivers will have the stage set to shine. The model predicts him to hit an average of 14.2 kicks, comfortably surpassing the line of 11.5. With a significant edge of 17.9%, the odds are in our favor for Rivers to rack up the possessions. As a key player for Melbourne, Rivers thrives on the big stage, making him a prime candidate to deliver on this over bet. Expect him to be in the thick of the action, dictating play and hitting his marks with precision.

Adam Cerra (Carlton) Under 21.5 Disposals (-120)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

Adam Cerra's recent form on the road suggests he might struggle to hit the set line of 21.5 disposals against Melbourne. In his last five away games, he's averaged 18.6 disposals, falling short of the line each time. Facing Melbourne adds another layer of complexity, as he averages 24.7 disposals against them away, but with the pressure mounting, his numbers may dip. Cerra's efficiency has been solid at 73.9%, but with only 4 turnovers per game, he might not see as much of the ball. With a model predicting 18.9 disposals and a 17.2% edge, the under on Cerra seems a savvy play for this clash at the MCG.

Kysaiah Pickett (Melbourne) Under 24.5 Disposals (-115)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

Looking at Kysaiah Pickett's recent form, it's clear he's been a force to be reckoned with at the G. Over his last 5 home games, he's been a standout, racking up an average of 24 disposals. However, when we zero in on his clashes against Carlton, that number drops to just 18 disposals. His contested possessions sit at 9.6 on home turf, suggesting he thrives in the thick of it, but against the Blues, that figure dips to 11.2. With a model predicting Pickett to hit around 21.5 disposals and a 16.7% edge pointing towards the under, it's a smart move to back him to stay under the 24.5 disposal line this Saturday. Pickett may snag a goal or two, but his disposals might not stack up as high against the Blues.

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

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to snagging marks, Lachlan Bramble has been a key aerial threat lately. In his last five home games, he's averaged a solid 4.2 marks, showcasing his ability to dominate the skies. Against Collingwood, he's been even more impressive, averaging 3.8 marks per game. With the game at the MCG, a venue that Bramble knows well, he'll be looking to elevate his performance. Moreover, his recent form with 0.4 contested marks per game adds another dimension to his marking prowess. The numbers point to Bramble surpassing the 3.5 marks line comfortably. So, expect him to rise above the pack, clunk a few contested grabs, and split the middle with his accurate kicking to deliver on the 'Player Marks Over' market.

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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