AFL Round 18 Tips 2026: Best Bets for Every Game
Round 18 is one of the biggest rounds of the season, with several games set to have a major impact on the finals race.
Fremantle host Sydney in a top-of-the-table clash, Carlton get another chance to prove they're the real deal against Hawthorn, while Geelong head to Sydney for a danger game against GWS.
Here are the best bets for every AFL Round 18 game using the workbook projections and the Round 18 True Footy analysis.
Fremantle Dockers vs Sydney Swans
Best Bet: Over 171.5 Total Points
This has all the makings of the game of the round. Fremantle have looked like the benchmark side all season despite slipping up against GWS last week, while Sydney continue to find ways to win even when they're not at their absolute best. With both teams capable of scoring quickly, the total looks like the safest play.
Collingwood Magpies vs North Melbourne Kangaroos
Best Bet: North Melbourne Kangaroos +15.5
North Melbourne have taken care of the teams they should be beating and now get the chance to show they belong in the finals conversation. Collingwood have quietly gone about their business and should win, but this shapes as a much tighter contest than the market suggests. The Kangaroos with the start looks the value.
St Kilda Saints vs Port Adelaide Power
Best Bet: St Kilda Saints 1-39 Winning Margin
This should be one of the more even games of the weekend. Port Adelaide have improved dramatically over the past month, but St Kilda have been reliable at Marvel Stadium and simply cannot afford to drop games like this if they're going to stay in the finals hunt. Home ground could prove the difference.
GWS Giants vs Geelong Cats
Best Bet: Geelong Cats -9.5
The Giants always seem to trouble Geelong, particularly at home, but this is a game the Cats simply have to win if they're serious about finishing in the top four. Expect another close contest, with the small start making Geelong the better betting option.
Carlton Blues vs Hawthorn Hawks
Best Bet: Over 171.5 Total Points
Carlton have been one of the hottest teams in the competition under Josh Fraser, while Hawthorn will be desperate to respond after last week's upset loss. Both sides have plenty of firepower and this shapes as one of the highest-scoring games of the round.
Adelaide Crows vs Gold Coast Suns
Best Bet: Adelaide Crows -17.5
Adelaide weren't at their best over the past fortnight but still found a way to bank another win. Gold Coast, meanwhile, continue to flatter to deceive and have struggled against quality opposition away from home. Back the Crows to bounce back with a convincing victory.
Western Bulldogs vs West Coast Eagles
Best Bet: Under 175.5 Total Points
The Bulldogs should have too much class, but they haven't been blowing teams away this season. West Coast have become much more competitive over the past two months and should be able to keep this game tighter than many expect, making the under the standout play.
Melbourne Demons vs Richmond Tigers
Best Bet: Melbourne Demons -47.5
Melbourne looked outstanding against Hawthorn and now return to the MCG against a Richmond side still battling through a long injury list. Everything points towards the Demons controlling this game from the opening bounce.
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers
Best Bet: Brisbane Lions -61.5
Brisbane have suddenly found their best footy again with impressive wins over Geelong and Sydney. Essendon continue to fight hard, but this is a brutal assignment at the Gabba. The Lions should continue their charge towards the finals with another big win.