While many aren’t backing a big year for the Eagles there is still a lot to like about the guys.

8 reasons why West Coast will still be the kings of the west this season.

1 – JK

When you just miss out on the Coleman medal because you missed a handful of games, you know you had a good season in front of the big sticks. JK is arguably still the best forward in the league and will win games off his own boot.

2 – Nic Nat

Will he be the Nic Nat of old, leaping over anyone standing in his way? Only time will tell, but if he isn’t the same as before – Nic Nat is still one of the top rucks in the AFL not only for his tap work but for his second and third chance efforts. Now if he can get some marks to stick and put a kick a couple goals he will be able to elevate his game to the next level.

3 – Fresh Look

A new stadium needs a fresh look.

West Coast has gone back to their roots and rolled out a new, old-school look. The big plus here is that they don’t wear purple!

The new, old school look

4 – Attack

As mentioned above West Coast have the best forward in the league with JK, but you can’t also forget his trusty sidekick Darling. Last year Darling kicked 4 goals as West Coast’s number 2… Freo’s #1 forward McCarthy kicked 25.

Throw in the electric Ryan and Rioli at the feet of JK and Darling, West Coast could have one of the most feared attacks in the AFL.

5 – Ultimate Utility: Yeo

Whether it’s grabbing and intercept mark and dashing off the backline, kicking goals up forward or having a run through the middle – it seems the only thing Yeo hasn’t done is regular ruck work.

6 – McGovern

The next million dollar man?

West Coast has been spoilt with McGovern’s play over the last few seasons as he has become the best intercept mark in the competition and one of the top 1 on 1 defenders.

7 – Gut Running of Gaff

Good luck keeping up with Gaff.

Gaff has become one of the AFL’s elite runners and each week the competition now struggle to keep him in check. Unmatched endurance, paired with a knack to find the ball and a skilled left foot makes Gaff a top-tier mid in the AFL.

8 – Tall Support

While Freo has a lot of tall in Sandilands, his age and injury history suggests that he might not make it through the full season, leaving Darcy to be the lone ruck for Freo. West Coast now with Nic Nat back also have Lycett and Vardy (once he is back from injury) providing them with unmatched ruck depth. This ruck depth will also allow McGovern to spend more time in the backline – which is a scary thought for opposition forwards.

Watch So Eagles, So Freo Part 2