ESPN Footytips AFL Podcast

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy break down Collingwood's qualifying final win and how they're approaching the week off, as well as the latest on Bobby Hill and Jeremy Howe. The boys also debate whether players should be fined $10,000 for flopping, the AFL's looming last disposal rule change, and why the cashed-up Saints simply MUST play finals in 2026. Plus, why Coxy thinks tagging is “boring” and a bad look for the game, and the key players and stats you need to watch for in this weekend's semifinals! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we review all four finals from a hectic week of September action, and look ahead to the two semifinals. Can we make a case for a straights sets exit? Who is Champion Data's new Mr. September? And why are airlines and the broadcasters in the gun? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy debate the biggest topics ahead of the first week of finals, including trade speculation bubbling during finals, whether we'll see another elimination finalist win a premiership, and if non-Victorian dominance in this year's final eight is good for the game. Plus, why the AFL shouldn't be concerned about the clear divide in this season's ladder, some stats to watch for in Week 1, and more!  (NOTE: this was recorded before the David Swallow confirmation - safe to say the boys are stoked he's in!)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we revisit the premiership standards for every finalist, and Jake gives each club a percentage chance of winning the flag. Plus we preview all four finals and name the X-factor to watch for each team! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's a bye week, but there's still plenty to unpack on Red Time. JB and Coxy dive into Harley Reid's huge decision to stay loyal to West Coast, what Oscar Allen's looming move says about free agency, and the biggest All-Australian snubs. Plus, they debate which non-finalists will rise or fall in 2026, and the merits and importance of the pre-finals bye.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team breaks down the Western Bulldogs' capitulation to Fremantle, and grades every team that missed finals - who gets an F, and who gets a B? Plus, Izak Rankine, the 'phantom behind' explained, and can the Dons actually win?! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the guys dive into the fallout from Izak Rankine's alleged on-field slur, with Coxy giving a rare player's perspective on how news like this actually filters through a club, how the Magpies handled it internally, and what impact it has on a playing group. Plus, they debate whether Harry Sheezel's 54-disposal game is more impressive than Jeremy Cameron's 11 goals, and give their take on proposed rule changes for 2026.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we consider whether or not Fremantle has lived up to expectations in 2025, and look at Hawthorn and GWS's recent form. Plus, Harry Sheezel's 54-disposal game, Shannon Neale love, the best dual-position players, Izak Rankine latest, and more! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy marvel at Nat Fyfe's incredible career and the mind-blowing stat from his unstoppable peak. Coxy takes us inside Collingwood amid their current form slump and what's being done to turn it around, while they also discuss the Saints' big contract decisions, delve into a huge edition of Start-Bench-Drop, look ahead to a massive weekend of footy, and, of course, have a laugh about Jeremy McGovern's son's big moment! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we rank each team in the finals race by the level of 'trust' we have in them to win the flag. Plus a look at Essendon's injury crisis, 'the runway', a Ben King update, and Nat Fyfe's legacy. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy dive into the bombshell sacking of Simon Goodwin and what it means for Melbourne's immediate future. They also weigh in on the awkward airport moment involving Jack Ginnivan and a news reporter, and how “uncomfortable” doorstops can affect player-media relationships. Plus, they talk all things Steele Sidebottom's 350th, who the biggest finals X-factors will be, and heaps more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we look at the machinations of the final few weeks of footy, and break down who is most likely to finish top four and top eight (hint, the Pies might be in strife!). Plus, the Cats' soft draw, Tex Walker's kicking, and some AFLW! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy laugh about Toby Greene and Tom Papley's cheeky exchange and discuss whether the AFL is becoming too precious when it comes to on-field language. They also dig into Collingwood's increased training loads ahead of a tough three-week stretch, and rank their favourite after-the-siren goals after Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's wild moment on the weekend. Plus, after Patrick Dangerfield ate a kebab on the bench, and so the boys imagine the most disrespectful snacks you could possibly eat mid-game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we analyse the crazy finish to the St Kilda vs. Melbourne match and consider Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's future. Plus, a look at which flag contenders are nailing Champion Data's 'runway', and we break down a few hard-to-believe stats from this week's spankings. Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy dive into the AFL's big player movement and contract debates, such as player salaries being public, and is the game ready for stars to announce their offseason moves in the middle of the season? They also weigh in on Greg Swann's mission to shorten games and whether it's time to rethink the father-son rule, the centre bounce, and the pre-finals bye. Plus, we could be in for a chaotic, wet-weather weekend of footy.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team debates whether the Eagles -- now three and a half games behind 17th -- deserve a priority pick. Plus, can we trust the Pies to finish top two, and can we trust the Dockers to keep winning?! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy go inside Collingwood's half time chat against Gold Coast and what's actually said when you're goalless at the break. They also discuss where the AFL's 20th license should go, Tristan Xerri's three-match ban, and inconsistencies in footy punishments. Plus, they investigate the AFL's weirdest visual mystery -- why are some No. 11 guernseys practically touching, while others so far apart? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we look at which teams have the best premiership profile heading into the home stretch of the season. Plus, why Richmond vs. Essendon wasn't that bad, the scheduling nightmare which faces the AFL, Harley vs. JHF, plus a heap more! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy break down the AFL's potential in-season tournament concept -- dubbed the league's version of the 'NBA Cup' -- and weigh up whether fans, players and clubs would actually take it seriously. They also discuss the growing frustration with umpires stopping games unnecessarily for minor knocks or boot mishaps, and dive into Damien Hardwick's ‘compliment' to the Bombers, asking whether more brutal honesty from coaches is actually good for the game. Plus, they share their thoughts on the latest score review blunder, and look ahead to a HUGE round of footy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we look at players with the highest and lowest kick:handball ratios, the players who are under the most pressure when disposing of the ball, and the tackle kings of the competition. Plus, the race for the eight (and why Freo is in trouble), and the latest member of the 1000 metres gained club! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, JB and Coxy react to the AFL's breaking crackdown on umpire contact, with suspensions now on the table for repeat offenders. Plus, with turf talk dominating the headlines, we get into the nitty gritty of boot studs, surface conditions, and whether the SCG is really that bad compared to some other grounds. Also on the agenda is AFL conferences, a potential award for defenders, and the out-of-this-world goal that hasn't received nearly enough attention! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we discuss the chasm in quality from the top nine to the bottom nine on the ladder, plus we touch on the Tom Lynch situation, the young stars usurping the 'old guard', and took a look at Melbourne's big conundrum. Join Matt Walsh, Rohan Connolly, and Champion Data's Christian Joly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

JB and Coxy break down the week's biggest talking points, including what goes on behind the scenes when clubs know one of their stars is set to cop heavy attention, and the emergence of the next great crop of key forwards (and how long it'll take them to truly peak). Coxy also sheds light on Graham Wright's behind-the-scenes impact during a turning point at Collingwood, and what Carlton can expect with him stepping in as CEO. Plus, we try to make sense of why flipping the bird is suddenly in fashion after Dimma joined the trend… and copped a fine for it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team debates whether Marcus Windhager crossed the line with his tag of Nick Daicos. Plus, a look at Carlton's identity under Michael Voss, what the Dockers are doing well, and Joel Amartey's record-breaking outing (for all the wrong reasons). Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's episode, JB and Coxy dive into Geelong's bold move to ‘white out' GMHBA Stadium and ask whether it will spark a new trend or fall flat. Plus, they also explore how mid-season draftees are able to make an instant impact at clubs, whether conditions genuinely impact how players feel about playing somewhere, and they throw out a cheeky crowd prediction for this week's blockbuster between GWS and Gold Coast.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we look at the Lions, and if it's time to worry about their premiership defence. We also delve into the teams hit hardest by injury by using a little-known Champion Data stat, and wonder if Thursday night footy is overdone. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

JB and Coxy react to the fallout from Jack Ginnivan's cheeky pre-goal celebration, debating whether it was unnecessary taunting or just a bit of harmless fun, and reflect on the heated exchange between Max Gawn and Steven May. They also deliver Part I of their short mid-season reviews, and dive into the importance of goalkicking accuracy. Plus, the boys feel like a night Grand Final is inevitable, even if it's not happening in 2025.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we discuss the Steven May-Max Gawn blow-up, debate Tom Stewart's bump on Noah Anderson, and look at the stats behind a truly bizarre round of footy. Plus, should every team tag Nick Daicos? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's episode, JB and Coxy unpack the fallout from Wayne Milera's ‘rabble' comments and question why clubs still feel the need to apologise for player honesty. They also debate who the current face of the league is, and ask what Greg Swann's first task should be in his new role at the AFL. Plus, they rank their favourite Big Freeze costumes of all time, ahead of the 11th edition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we discuss Sydney's drop off and Adelaide's rise into premiership contention, and deliver an update on 'the 45 kick' and control vs. chaos games. Plus, the biggest 'rabbles' in footy, and who is the 'face of the league'? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca debate whether it's time for a mid-season trade period in the AFL, and with the NFL voting to allow its players to compete in Olympic flag football, they dream up which footy players could take them on if Australia formed a team. Plus, Mason passionately questions whether the billion-dollar Tassie stadium will ever get off the ground.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we look at the Demons' turnaround from their disastrous 0-5 start, how the Pies just keep fronting up, and why the Blues just can't score. Plus, Jake issues some apologies, and the Ben King stat that would have Fraser Gehrig blushing. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca ponder what concessions should be handed to Tasmania for their entry into the league, debate which positions on the field are the most valuable in the modern game, ask if the punishment always fits the crime when it comes to 50-metre penalties, and look ahead to a huge weekend of footy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team looks at Essendon's horrific effort and their broader struggles, and debate who the best coach in the AFL is. Plus, metres gained records, losing streaks, and 'effective spoils'. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox, who was on the field when Lachie Schultz was concussed, gives his take on the umpire audio revelations that have the AFL under pressure. We also ponder whether the AFL should have a draft lottery after the wild results in the NBA, and ask if goal umpires should be allowed to pay free kicks. Plus, we rank our favourite Indigenous guernseys, and look ahead to a big round of footy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team unpacks a wild weekend of footy and looks at how close Nick Blakey came to breaking a unique record. Plus, Christian breaks down exactly what makes up a team's pressure rating and which players apply it the most. And what was the 'expected score' from Aaron Francis' miss from point-blank range? Join Jarryd Barca, Rohan Connolly, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox explains to Jarryd Barca the complexities of preparing for a game off a five-day break, while the boys discuss the ‘baffling' score review system and are hellbent on ball-tracking technology being implemented in the game sooner rather than later. Plus, how Ross Lyon's brutal subbing of Hugo Garcia worked, and will the AFL and its fans ever fully embrace bold and brash personalities like they do in the NBA and NFL? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team exposes Fremantle's 'Jekyll and Hyde' form after a preseason filled with expectation. Plus, the Bulldogs are hitting premiership metrics, some exclusive '45 kick' numbers, and is Jack Crisp's record unbreakable? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca unpack the fallout from Paul Curtis' three-match suspension, and ask whether the AFL should steal a page out of the NFL's playbook and ‘glam up' the draft. Plus, Mason takes us inside the habits and secrets that keep Steele Sidebottom and Scott Pendlebury defying age, and we have some bold takes in Don't Be Surprised If… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team looks at the players who have improved the most in 2025, and those who have slid down the 100X rankings. Plus, more bellwether stats, the 'zero disposal' club, and are the Blues actually back? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca dive into the public debate around Anzac guernseys -- are they a respectful gesture or becoming ‘too' commercial? They also share their favourite designs revealed by clubs this year. Plus, they ask the question: should the AFL introduce its own 'play-in' system similar to those used in other sports around the world? And unpack the growing issue of social media trolls in footy -- how it affects players, and what can be done about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, and with the election coming up, Christian looks at 'bellwether' stats, and the players feature the most. Plus, success stories of moving from midfield to half back, the fastest goals on record, and heaps more! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca reveal their totally unqualified AFL venue rankings (sorry, ENGIE Stadium), unpack the Dees' struggles and how it could mirror Collingwood's 2021 season, and ask the question: are Gold Coast legit? Plus, they imagine the chaos of a Suns-Giants Grand Final, and each pick the team with the most to prove in Round 6. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we delve into the AFL's best kicks by looking into retention rates, look at where the Crows need to improve, and what's gone wrong for the Demons. Plus, do the Hawks need to shut up and play footy? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Red Time is back for season 2025! On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca unpack the rise of Sam Darcy and how defenders can stop him, and debate which rules in the AFL need tweaking. Plus, we chat Bronx cheers, jumper clashes, and which side released the best Gather Round guernsey?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on the podcast, Christian delves deeper into the premiership metrics now that most teams have a month of footy under their belt, while he also reveals more about the '45 kick' and speed of ball movement. Plus, coaches in the hot seat, and player gamesmanship. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team discusses Rhyan Mansell's ban, analyses Gold Coast's hot start and if it's sustainable, and looks at the Saints' turnaround offensively. Plus, wind-affected games, the 'second half Blues', and more. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team analyses the underwhelming starts of Fremantle and Essendon, looks at some xScores stats and which teams use 'the 45 kick' the most, plus some other interesting nuggets on a number of teams. Join Matt Walsh, Rohan Connolly, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team looks at the strong performances of a number of debutants, unpacks Carlton's shock loss to Richmond, identifies the Hawks' changing game style, plus heaps more including the latest tribunal drama. Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, the team analyses the two Opening Round matches, and look at where each team stands after the weekend. Plus, is Nick Daicos as fit as he could be, and what mistakes did Dean Cox make in his coaching debut? And the return of 'who is it a bit week for?'" Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The ESPN Footy Podcast BACK! This week, the team talks through new stats Champion Data will track this year, Jake reveals his top 10 players in the league, we give our season predictions, and we ask 'who is it a big year for?' Plus, 'Is the hype justified or is it hyperbole?' returns. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices