INTERVIEW: Nathan Buckley - 24 August 2026
Summary
Nathan Buckley and Timmy Dayos preview the AFL finals, highlighting Isaac Rankin's standout performance and Brisbane’s status as the top team. They discuss the new top-10 wildcard format, praising it for maintaining season-long interest, and analyze upcoming matches between the Bulldogs, Collingwood, and a red-hot Carlton. The conversation also covers coaching changes at Essendon and Geelong, as well as the Sydney Swans’ decision to bench key players to prioritize team cohesion.
Topics discussed
AFL Awards promotion and guest introduction
Media criticism and Isaac Rankin's standout game
Rankin's development and role in the midfield
Brisbane Lions as the team to beat
Reaction to the new wildcard finals format
Analysis of Bulldogs vs Collingwood wildcard match
Bulldogs form and Carlton's strong season
Carlton's momentum and Melbourne's injury issues
Coaching changes: Essendon and Carlton appointments
Nathan Buckley's perspective on coaching roles
Sydney Swans' decision to bench key players
Sydney's team culture and Col Jafar's status
AFL concussion protocols and player liability
Closing remarks and AFL Awards reminder
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