The Crows open Gather Round with a must-win clash against the Blues, who are once again under pressure after another second-half collapse against North Melbourne last week.<\/p>\n
After finishing on top of the ladder at the end of the 2025 home and away season, Adelaide\u2019s horror finals run has spilled into 2026.<\/p>\n
They sit 1-3 to start the year, although the draw hasn\u2019t been kind, facing Collingwood, Geelong, Western Bulldogs and Fremantle.<\/p>\n
As for Carlton, it\u2019s been a nightmare start and it gets worse with Jacob Weitering sidelined for this clash.<\/p>\n
Adelaide games have been among the lowest scoring in the competition this season, averaging just 159 total points, with all four games going under.<\/p>\n
Eight of the Crows\u2019 last ten at Adelaide Oval have gone under, and Carlton trends the same way.<\/p>\n
Sixteen of the Blues\u2019 last 19 night games have gone under, averaging 154 total points. Expect this to land in a similar range.<\/p>\n
Milera has taken on the designated kicking role across half-back for Adelaide.<\/p>\n
Despite only hitting 20+ disposals twice this season, he is averaging 24.8 per game, which explains the value here.<\/p>\n
He had 19 touches against both the Bulldogs and Cats, but this matchup shapes better. Caleb Daniel found plenty of the ball against Carlton last week, and Milera should play a similar role.<\/p>\n
Taylor is an important forward presence for the Crows, especially with Josh Rachele spending more time in the midfield.<\/p>\n
He kicked three goals against Geelong and followed up with another against Fremantle last week.<\/p>\n
Expect him to be involved again here.<\/p>\n
Hollands has been one of Carlton\u2019s few bright spots to start 2026.<\/p>\n
He is averaging 19 disposals per game and has hit 15+ in three of four matches, including a 25-disposal game against Melbourne.<\/p>\n