westernbulldogs.com.au has scanned the media to compile the ultimate guide to Monday night's Brownlow Medal count.
Fox Footy
Marcus Bontempelli was all class in an otherwise disappointing season and should poll the most votes on Brownlow night. He could even be in contention for a podium spot. Jack Macrae was prolific and should also poll relatively well, while Jason Johannisen had some eye-catching games.
Most Team Votes: Marcus Bontempelli
Last Winner: Adam Cooney (2008)
Champion Data Prediction: Marcus Bontempelli (17 votes)
Our Prediction: Marcus Bontempelli (21 votes)
- Riley Beveridge
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Herald Sun
Jack Macrae has polled 10, 11 and one vote in the past three seasons on the back of 562, 535 and 486 disposals. This year he returned 605 disposals from 22 games.
Votes: Bontempelli 22; Johannisen 9; Hunter, Macrae 5; Dahlhaus 4; Stringer, Picken 3.
- Jamie Tate
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Champion Data
Bontempelli 17, Macrae 10, Johannisen 9, Dahlhaus 6, Hunter 5, Picken, Biggs, Dale 2
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The Age
Best chance: Marcus Bontempelli. While it wasn’t a stand out year, the polished midfielder and forward was his team’s best player in a disappointing season. Had a quiet patch mid year but could still end up with five best-on-ground performances. Polled 20 votes last year.
In the mix: Jack Macrae. In a year when the Dogs midfield lacked the bite of 2016, the hard-running Macrae was able to step up his game, averaging more than 27 touches per match. Played every game.
Surprise/roughie: Lachie Hunter polled 13 votes last season. While his influence was not as great this year, his still averaged almost 23 disposals per game and booted 18 goals.
- Jon Pierik
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AFL Media
The Dogs don't have a clear standout to take "Charlie" home this year, but midfielders Jack Macrae and Marcus Bontempelli appear likely to poll the most votes. The Brownlow predictor has Bontempelli collecting 18 and Macrae 12. Look for third-year talents Toby McLean and Bailey Dale to notch up their first votes after some eye-catching games in impressive breakout seasons.
Best chance: Jack Macrae
For his consistency throughout the season where inconsistency hampered the 2016 premiers, Macrae should easily win the club's best and fairest award and poll the most votes for the Bulldogs in the Brownlow Medal. The 23-year-old midfielder didn't miss match in 2017, averaging a team-high 27.5 possessions at an impressive 77 per cent efficiency. He's also an extremely fair player, receiving 34 free kicks while giving away just 14.
Fast starter: Marcus Bontempelli
The star playmaker could have six votes by round four following dominant performances against Collingwood, Sydney and North Melbourne. For a player who doesn’t need a lot of the footy to have a big impact, the 21-year-old collected 76 touches, 17 tackles and kicked five goals in those early rounds.
One-vote wonder: Bailey Dale
After getting his chance in round six, the Edithvale-Aspendale product became a permanent fixture and an important cog in the Bulldog machine. The skillful wingman's four-goal haul against Port Adelaide in round 22 was worthy of at least one vote.
Ineligible players: Jack Redpath, Easton Wood.
- Ryan Davidson
