Here's Walls, Lyon and Lloyd's predictions for us in 2012 ...
EXPERTS' VERDICT: RICHMOND
Robert Walls - 13th
The Tigers are a young middle-of-the-road team that can't be taken seriously until they beat some class sides. Last year they didn't beat any of the top six teams. They conceded 108 points a game - only Port Adelaide and Gold Coast performed worse in defence last season. With a developing forward line led by the exciting Riewoldt, and an improving midfield inspired by Cotchin, it's the rucks and backline that have to improve if the Tigers are to be finalists for the first time in 11 seasons. Ruck giant Maric has been acquired from Adelaide to assist battling ruck pair Browne and Graham, and it is hoped injuries don't cruel key defenders as they did in 2011.
Garry Lyon - 12th
Another team that could push for a spot in the eight, but until the Tigers actually get there, they will remain a team that promises plenty but are yet to deliver. If Post and Astbury can emulate the feats of Vickery and Rance in recent years, and regularly influence the results of games, the Tigers may be closer to their first finals appearance in 10 years.
Matthew Lloyd - 12th
Richmond has the best young midfield in the AFL with Cotchin, Martin and Foley, and this year will add Deledio into the mix to make them formidable. I like the forward setup of Riewoldt, Vickery and Nahas, but the concern for Richmond is the lack of depth through the midfield and a suspect defence. The Tigers' key backs in Rance, Grimes and McGuane struggle to contain the monster forwards, and the running backs turn the ball over far too often. The Tigers are 12 months away from making the eight and have a horror first five rounds to start this season.
