New Brownlow Medal favourite after Daicos masterclass

Collingwood star Nick Daicos is again the Brownlow Medal favourite after he produced a strong showing against West Coast on Saturday night. 

While Daicos was prolific with 34 possessions it was Scott Pendlebury’s class that shone through in the clash and it would surprise if one of them didn’t bag the three votes. 

Daicos (34 touches, 1.3 and five clearances) has now had his Brownlow Medal odds trimmed into $3.50, ahead of Jordan Dawson ($3.75) and Bailey Smith ($4).

Collingwood coach Craic McRae said Daicos had improved as the match went on, and had not been completely taken unawares by the Tigers’ decision not to tag his star man. 

“We sort of prepped for it,” he said. 

“I sort of know Mini (Eagles coach Andrew McQualter) pretty well from his Richmond days, and I know Richmond had this never tag philosophy and the system will catch these players. 

“It didn’t surprise me in the end, but coming into the game we prepped for it and i thought Nick’s second half was really really strong. 

“One thing i know about elite players is just get out of their way… and Nick is certainly one of them players.” 

Dawson had 26 touches in the Crows victory over Richmond on Sunday, with this highlighted by his six clearances and seven tackles. 

Caleb Serong ($14) was quiet in the Dockers win over St Kilda on Sunday, while Gold Coast captain Noah Anderson ($15) performed strongly in their 19-point win over Melbourne. 

GWS ace Tom Green and Western Bulldogs midfielder Ed Richards (both $34) are also considered strong chances to win the 2025 Brownlow Medal. 

The AFL season resumes on Thursday night in round 17 action, with North Melbourne set to clash with the Western Bulldogs.