What a weekend of footy we just witnessed! We’re already about to be a third way through the 2026 season and as we hit Round 9, the cream is truly starting to rise to the top.

I’ve had head in the stats and checked out the replays to find the form players and value bets as we head into Round 9.

From milestone fairytales to superstars who simply refuse to be tagged out of the contest, there are some massive narratives building this week.

Whether you're looking for a king distributor or a boot of consequence primed to kick goals, I've got you covered with another edition of Kate's Bolters.

For the inside lane on players to watch in the AFL, check out my Round 9 analysis and betting tips below.

AFL’s Best Players to Watch in Round 9

Mitch Georgiades - Port Adelaide Power

If you're looking to see some goals scored this week, look no further than Mitch Georgiades taking on the Western Bulldogs.

The Dogs are still a bit undermanned defensively; while Buku Khamis was much improved last week, I still think Mitch G gets a hold of them.

Georgiades has been an absolute presence lately, having a massive 16 shots at goal in his past two games.

You have to go to the 4+ goal market to find some real value, but given the volume of opportunities he's been creating, I think he’s a good chance to get the job done for Port.

Betting tip: Mitch Georgiades 4+ goals.

Nick Daicos - Collingwood Magpies

The man is putting up video game numbers right now, averaging 36.6 disposals this season. Teams have tried everything to tag him or shut him down, but he just keeps finding the footy regardless of the attention.

This week, Oisin Mullin will likely go to him, but I still think Daicos clears his disposal line.

It might be a brave one to take on against a well drilled Cats side, but with his ability to accumulate touches in every corner of the ground, he’s a good chance to find a way and get it done.

Betting tip: Nick Daicos 30+ disposals.

Tom Stewart - Geelong Cats

Geelong absolutely LOVE finding milestone men for a sneaky goal late in the piece.

We saw it recently when Jake Kolodjashnij popped up in his 200th game for just his fifth career goal, and this week the spotlight is on Tom Stewart for his own 200-game milestone.

I think the Cats will look to find Stewart late to cap off the celebration.

Considering he has only kicked seven goals in his entire career; there should be some very nice value here for him to drift forward and snag a milestone major.

Betting tip: Tom Stewart 1+ goal.

Josh Rachele - Adelaide Crows

This is a real "fill your boots" opportunity for Josh Rachele this weekend. He has a phenomenal record against the Tigers; in his last four games against Richmond, he has kicked two or more goals.

While he hasn't hit the scoreboard as much over the past couple of weeks, he loves this matchup.

Richmond’s defence has been vulnerable, and this is the perfect game for Rachele to find his spark again. This is my best bet of the weekend.

Betting tip: Josh Rachele 2+ goals.

Odds are subject to change. *