A final 16

[thebaldfacts]

With the debate about the bye being a disadvantage to those in the top 4, maybe it is time to consider a final 16.

Not only would this have the benefit of eliminating tanking, it gives those higher up the ladder easier games leading into the GF.

Basically we would have 8 finals in the first week based on finishing order -1 v 16, 2 v 15 etc.

Week 2, assuming that top 8 won, then 1 v 8, 2 v 7 etc.

Week 3, assuming top 4 win, then 1 v 4 and 2 v 3.

Week 4 - GF.

Under this system, you get real advantage in finishing higher by getting easier games. But also tanking for the spoon is virtually eliminated as you still have a faint chance of premiership glory as long as you avoid the bottom 2.

Great for the AFL as it eliminates meaningless games as all sides are still a finals chance going late into the season.

Also helps alleviate the unfairness of the draw because the draw could be the difference between 8 -12 under the current system.

Maybe it cheapens the finals a bit, by allowing poor sides to play finals, but it will maintain interest for all clubs for the whole season.