Where: Gabba
* The form
Brisbane (Second, 17 wins, six losses).
A 54-point loss to Port Adelaide to begin the season was soon forgotten as the Lions clicked into gear. Their two wins over minor premiers Collingwood proved crucial in snaring a top-two berth.
Port Adelaide (Third, 17 wins, six losses).
Port were near untouchable during a 13-match winning streak, but came crashing back to earth between rounds 18-21 with four straight losses. That mini slump ended up costing them second spot.
* Head-to-head
Overall: Brisbane 20 wins, Port Adelaide 19 wins, 2 draws
In Finals: Brisbane 2 wins, Port Adelaide 1 win
Last time: Round 1, 2023: Port Adelaide 18.18 (126) beat Brisbane 11.6 (72) at Adelaide Oval
* The coaches
Brisbane coach Chris Fagan started the year with huge question marks hovering over his future after being implicated in the historical Hawthorn racism saga. After being cleared of any wrongdoing, Fagan now faces the challenge of improving on last year's preliminary-final appearance.
Ken Hinkley was coaching for survival earlier this year, knowing a poor start to the season would cost him the prospect of a contract extension. A club-record 13-match winning streak earned him a new deal, and he has eyes on flag glory now.
* The key players
Charlie Cameron (Brisbane)
His 53-goal campaign was enough to earn him a second All-Australian jumper, and Cameron looms as a key figure in Brisbane's push for the premiership.
Connor Rozee (Port Adelaide)
Another huge year from the young midfielder. Not only was Rozee able to average 26 disposals, five tackles and 3.7 clearances per game, he also kicked 20 goals to give Port's midfield an important attacking edge.
Lachie Neale (Brisbane)
Beware of the wounded warrior. Neale has let it be known he "keeps receipts", and his All-Australian snub will no doubt be burning at the forefront of his mind. Has the ability to rack up a huge possession and clearance counts.
* The stats
Brisbane are ranked No.1 in the league for clearances, with the Lions averaging a whopping 42.3 per game. The Power, boasting the likes of Rozee, Zak Butters, Oliver Wines and Jason Horne-Francis, are no mugs themselves, ranking fifth with 38.5 per game.
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