I think it's way too hard to predict anything at this point in time, but for some reason I have the feeling that 2010 will be even better than this year!
What I've learned from 2009 - Injuries can really effect a team. If you don't have your best players on the field, you don't have much of a chance (Geelong v Brisbane and Carlton).
Top 4 -
Even though the Saints had a sensational year, they'll be filthy with themselves after a disappointing Grand Final. Can they back up their impressive season? I'm putting them in the top 4 because they'll be as ravenous as Geelong were this year.
Geelong aren't done yet, they could finish minor premiers. They rested a few players this year for the finals, lost some games (only 4) and everyone thought they were slipping... then they won the Grand Final. Definitely top 4 and maybe even a 4th consecutive GF appearance.
The top two have been in a league of their own for the past couple of years, but a few teams have steadily been rising to the calibre of the best. This year the Western Bulldogs were not QUITE as good as the top 2, but now with a main forward, they'll be even more dangerous. Top 4 again with possible Grand Final form.
Collingwood, Adelaide, Brisbane and even Hawthorn will be competing for top 4. It's going to be so close again.
Anyway, here are my predictions.
Flag - St Kilda.
Runner up - Geelong/Bulldogs.
Brownlow - I'll just say Ablett, but who knows?
Spoon - I think Melbourne will finally get off the bottom with poor old Richmond taking the "honours".
Source(s):
My opinion.