Stopping a team, not individuals will be the focus for the Western Bulldogs on Saturday night says Assistant Coach Rohan Smith, when they face-off against Essendon at Etihad Stadium.

While Essendon's top line talent is well known, Smith said it is their even spread of contributors across the ground that make them a formidable opponent.

“You have a look at their players, the two that standout is Jobe Watson and Brent Stanton they are fantastic players and they really kick start their ball movement,” Smith said.

“But then you have a look at their forward line and there are some good players, then obviously their backline, their backline has been pivotal to them.

“We have to look at all areas not just one or two players - we have to look at their whole team.”

Limiting Essendon’s ball movement will be a primary focus for the Bulldogs, building on their improved team defensive efforts last week against Adelaide.

“We have to bring our contested game,” he said.

“We know the type of footy that Essendon like to play and we think that if we bring our contested footy and our style it will hopefully combat the way they want to play and get the game back on our terms.

“That is something that we have been working on this week.”

The Bulldogs got on top in both the contested ball (147-141) and clearance count (36-32) for the first time this season against Adelaide.

Smith said that intensity needed to be replicated by every Bulldogs player on the field against Essendon if the team is to be successful.

“The basis of our game is our contested possession and our willingness around the contest and that came back on the weekend,” he said.

“For where we are at, we need 22 contributors every single week.

“Every single person in the team, whether it be a back pocket, midfield or forward pocket, has to play a role.”