As the AFL season heats up, so does the betting market. Whether you’re a rusted-on supporter or a sharp-eyed punter, tracking the AFL Premiership odds can give you powerful insight into team form, public sentiment, and value opportunities. But while the top-tier favourites dominate headlines, it’s often the dark horses who deliver the real betting gold.
In this guide, we break down the frontrunners for the 2025 AFL flag, highlight the under-the-radar threats, and explore how to approach Premiership betting with a smart, long-term strategy.
Understanding AFL Premiership Odds
Before diving into the teams, it’s worth revisiting how outright betting works. Premiership odds reflect a team’s implied chance of winning the Grand Final, but they also shift based on form, injuries, betting activity, and ladder position.
- Lower odds (e.g. $3.50) suggest a strong favourite
- Longer odds (e.g. $21+) point to an outsider or dark horse
- Odds can move week to week based on wins, losses, and injuries
These markets are most popular during the preseason and mid-season — ideal times to back a team before the odds shorten. Smart punters look for value, not just favourites.
AFL Premiership Favourites (2025)
As of the latest odds update, several clubs have emerged as clear Premiership contenders. These are the teams that have built depth, consistency, and momentum heading into the heart of the season.
Collingwood Magpies
Still riding the high of their recent flag, the Magpies are once again among the shortest in the market. With star power in every line, they’ve maintained high performance and strong support in the bookies’ markets.
Brisbane Lions
Consistently around the top four in recent years, Brisbane combines young talent with finals experience. Their dominance at the Gabba makes them a perennial threat — and the betting odds reflect that.
Melbourne Demons
The Dees remain one of the best defensive units in the comp and continue to attract serious betting attention. Punters trust their structure and maturity when it comes to September footy.
AFL Dark Horses – Teams to Watch
While the top-tier teams hog the spotlight, every AFL season sees a mid-table riser or two flip the script. These are the sides that aren’t necessarily favourites — but still offer strong betting value at longer odds.
Carlton Blues
After a rollercoaster few years, the Blues have found consistency. Their midfield is stacked, and with a few key wins, they could surge into flag contention. If you backed them early in the season, you’d now be sitting on strong value.
Port Adelaide
Port’s youth mixed with elite midfielders makes them a dangerous side in September. They’ve shown they can compete with the best, and if they hit form at the right time, they could cause serious upsets.
GWS Giants
The Giants continue to be underestimated by bookmakers. But their aggressive style and growing maturity have made them one of the best value bets in the Premiership market. Don’t overlook them.
AFL Premiership Betting Tips
If you’re thinking of jumping into the AFL futures market, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for early-season value – Prices are longest before Round 1 and after early losses.
- Monitor injuries and suspensions – These can drastically swing the odds, especially to key players.
- Avoid chasing the shortest odds – Favourites can fall apart by finals time.
- Diversify your bets – Consider backing one favourite and one roughie to cover both angles.
- Shop around – Different bookies offer different Premiership odds and promos.
Responsible Betting Reminder
Futures markets like AFL Premiership betting are exciting, but they require patience and discipline. Set a budget, avoid overcommitting on emotional picks, and make use of betting tools like loss limits or account tracking.
Final Thoughts: Favourites Are Safe, But Value Lives in the Shadows
The AFL flag race is as competitive as ever. While teams like Collingwood and Brisbane lead the way in the odds, history tells us that dark horses often rise late and deliver stunning results. Whether you’re betting for fun or aiming to capitalise on the numbers, keeping an eye on both form and value is the key to successful AFL Premiership betting.
Want to Bet Smarter This AFL Season?
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