Round 13 is officially here, and the race for the top 10 wildcard positions is starting to reach a boiling point.

Another action-packed weekend of footy means another golden opportunity to hunt down some serious betting value across the ledger.

From revitalised underdogs defending their home turf to elite midfielders primed to dominate on the big stage - there are some massive narratives building across the competition this week.

Whether you’re searching for a prolific ball-magnet ready to explode or a premier goal-kicking specialist set to spark a scoreboard surge, we have you completely covered.

For the inside lane on the best AFL bets, check out our Round 13 analysis and betting tips below.

AFL’s Best Players to Watch in Round 13

West Coast Eagles - For The Win Over Port Adelaide

The West Coast Eagles look like a massive chance to secure a win this weekend. They have been playing much better footy in recent weeks, with Harley Reid becoming a genuine star of the AFL in 2026.

They’ve had great performances at home this year and look to be on the up against a somewhat one-dimensional Port Adelaide side.

Back the local boys to bring the heat and get the job done on their own deck.

Betting tip: West Coast Eagles to win H2H.

Jai Newcombe - Hawthorn Hawks

If you are hunting for a midfielder primed to clear his disposal line, look no further than this relentless Hawk. Jai Newcombe absolutely loves playing against the Dogs and averages 30 disposals in his last five matches against them.

Expect him to put on another clinic at the G this Friday night.

Betting tip: Jai Newcombe 28+ disposals.

Ed Richards - Western Bulldogs

The speedy Bulldogs midfielder is a specialist when it comes to exploiting the wide-open expanses of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Ed Richards consistently finds ways to cause havoc for defensive systems, particularly on wider surfaces like the MCG and the.

He’s got speed to burn on the wings and has averaged 26+ over his last five appearances at the G.

Expect Richards to find plenty of ball out of the back half and make it count.

Betting tip: Ed Richards 26+ disposals.

Will Hayward - Sydney Swans

The dynamic Swans forward is in close to career-best form and has been a nightmare for opposition defenders inside the attacking fifty.

He’s booted two+ goals in three of his last four matches, highlighting his ability to influence the scoreboard.

Expect the clinical Sydney midfield to find Will Hayward more than once in this one.

Betting tip: Will Hayward 2+ goals.

Christian Petracca - Gold Coast Suns

All eyes will be on the superstar Sun to dominate his first Q clash.

Christian Petracca is built for these high-pressure local derbies and is primed to make an impact against the embattled reigning premiers.

Look for value on a Petracca performance multi; I’m thinking he’s in for a big one against the Lions.

Betting tip: Same player multi Christian Petracca 27+ disposals, one+ goal and seven+ clearances.

Odds are subject to change.*