Sportsday What does Champion Data think of Essendon? - Full on Footy with Daniel Hoyne (24.03.26)
Mar 24, 2026
A deep dive into how data views Essendon and whether their numbers are just stat padding. Heated debate about their high-possession, uncontested marking style and its defensive holes. Tactical comparisons to Richmond and successful defensive models. Questions about coaching decisions, playing identity, and whether defend-with-ball works in finals.
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Good Win-Loss Masked Weak Team Profile
- Essendon looked statistically strong in disposals early in the year but underlying metrics showed weakness in offence and defence.
- Gerard Healy highlighted they were 5-3 with a 90% percentage yet had the second-worst offence and fourth-worst defence, signalling hidden problems.
High Disposals Without Impact Equals Stat Padding
- Essendon’s midfield racks disposals but produces little impact because much of it is uncontested 'junk' possession.
- Healy compared Essendon mids like Merritt, Parish and Cordwell to past stat-padded seasons where high counts didn't translate to scoring or defence.
Use Proven Players To Rewire Playing Mindset
- Bring in thinkers who transformed teams from junk-football to winners to change playing mindset.
- Healy suggested recruiting Trent Cotchin to teach how Richmond shifted from high-possession junk to direct, contested football.