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Jesse’s AFL Round 8 Tips 2026: Predictions & Margins for Every Match

Jesse Mclure

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Last updated: Tue 28 Apr 2026 14:21

Jesse Mclure 28 Apr 2026

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True Footy AFL Tips Round 8
Jesse projects Hawthorn to win over Collingwood by 26 points with their superior ball control.
Fremantle, touted for reliability, expected to surpass Western Bulldogs with a 25-point lead.
Sydney Swans predicted to edge out Melbourne in a close 10-point game, marked as the round's highlight.

Jesse’s Predictions & Margins for Every Match

AFL Round 8 Tips 2026: Jesse’s Predictions & Margins for Every Match

Round 8 is where the AFL season starts to feel real.

AFL Round 8 Tips 2026: Jesse’s Predictions & Margins for Every Match
Collingwood vs Hawthorn Prediction
Western Bulldogs vs Fremantle Prediction
Adelaide vs Port Adelaide Prediction
Essendon vs Brisbane Prediction
West Coast vs Richmond Prediction
Geelong vs North Melbourne Prediction
Carlton vs St Kilda Prediction
Sydney vs Melbourne Prediction
Gold Coast vs GWS Giants Prediction

The top teams are separating, form lines are hardening, and a few clubs are already under serious pressure. With genuine contenders clashing and several danger games on the slate, this round shapes as one of the most telling of the season so far.

Here are Jesse’s tips and predicted margins for every AFL Round 8 game.

Collingwood vs Hawthorn Prediction

Hawthorn look like one of the best teams in the competition right now, with their methodical ball use and ability to control tempo standing out. Players like Jai Newcombe and Dylan Moore continue to drive their system.

Collingwood responded strongly last week, but without Scott Pendlebury their midfield depth takes a hit. With Nick Daicos still central to their ball movement, they’ll stay competitive — but Hawthorn’s consistency and system should win out.

Jesse’s Tip: Hawthorn by 26 points

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Western Bulldogs vs Fremantle Prediction

The Bulldogs have fallen away sharply, with injuries to key players like Aaron Naughton and Tim English disrupting their structure.

Fremantle, led by Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw, continue to bank wins and show composure late in games. Their ability to surge when it matters makes them far more reliable right now.

Jesse’s Tip: Fremantle by 25 points

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Adelaide vs Port Adelaide Prediction

The Showdown arrives at an intriguing time, with Adelaide inconsistent but competitive against strong opposition, while Port Adelaide are coming off one of their most complete performances of the season.

Jason Horne-Francis and Zak Butters give Port serious midfield firepower, but Adelaide’s ability to match up well in this fixture — along with Jordan Dawson’s influence — tips the balance slightly.

Jesse’s Tip: Adelaide Crows by 10 points

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Essendon vs Brisbane Prediction

Essendon remain unpredictable, with a young list capable of competing in patches but struggling to maintain intensity across four quarters.

Brisbane are building nicely, with Lachie Neale, Zac Bailey and Will Ashcroft all in strong form. Their midfield depth and class should prove too much.

Jesse’s Tip: Brisbane Lions by 30 points

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West Coast vs Richmond Prediction

Both sides sit near the bottom, but Richmond have shown better overall competitiveness. Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper continue to lead their midfield effort.

West Coast are battling injuries and form issues, and their inability to sustain effort late in games remains a concern. Richmond’s pressure and consistency should give them the edge.

Jesse’s Tip: Richmond by 35 points

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Geelong vs North Melbourne Prediction

Geelong will be looking to respond after a poor performance, and GMHBA Stadium remains one of the toughest trips in the competition.

North Melbourne have shown clear improvement, with Luke Davies-Uniacke leading a developing midfield. But Geelong’s system, led by Tom Stewart and supported by emerging players like Tanner Bruhn, should control the game.

Jesse’s Tip: Geelong by 45 points

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Carlton vs St Kilda Prediction

Carlton’s record doesn’t fully reflect their competitiveness, with several close losses masking their true level. Sam Walsh and Patrick Cripps continue to lead a midfield capable of winning clearances.

St Kilda have shown flashes of dominance, particularly through Jack Sinclair and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, and carry more consistent form into this game.

Jesse’s Tip: St Kilda by 20 points

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Sydney vs Melbourne Prediction

This shapes as the game of the round, with two exciting teams going head-to-head. Sydney’s transition game, led by Chad Warner and Errol Gulden, has been elite all season.

Melbourne have shown they can match it with anyone, with Max Gawn and Kozzy Pickett leading the way, but their away form remains a concern.

Jesse’s Tip: Sydney Swans by 10 points

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Gold Coast vs GWS Giants Prediction

Gold Coast’s midfield, featuring Christian Petracca, Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson, remains one of the strongest on paper — but they haven’t consistently dominated clearances.

GWS have been inconsistent and are dealing with injuries, particularly around the midfield. At home, if the Suns clean up their inside 50 use, they should take control.

Jesse’s Tip: Gold Coast Suns by 24 points