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Don The Stat

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Don the Stat is a weekly podcast covering the Essendon Football Club. Former Essendon Football Club analyst Jonathan Walsh is joined by fellow Essendon fan Ian Hume to break down the previous weeks game and preview the tactics of the next match. We focus on a more analytical approach that considers the statistics and match day tactics that will impact each game.

Visit donthestat.com for the official home of Don The Stat.

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  • 23 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 57 min
  • English

Episodes 23

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  • #374
    Thursday · 1 hr 8 min

    Round 24 Review | One Season Ends, The Spike Era Begins

    The 2026 season is over but a new Essendon era has already begun. 🔴⚫ We review the narrow final-round loss to Port Adelaide, Nate Caddy’s brilliant six-goal performance and the costly centre-bounce collapse that allowed the Power to escape with the win. Then it’s onto the week’s biggest news: Mark McVeigh is Essendon’s new senior coach. We assess the process, the strengths Spike brings to the role, the support he’ll need around him and our experience interviewing him shortly after his appointment. Plus, we thank Dean Solomon for his impact as interim coach, share our immediate reflections on a difficult but important season, celebrate the development of Essendon’s young core and preview the VFL elimination final at Windy Hill. 🎙️🏉 ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #373
    Tuesday · 22 min

    The First Interview: Mark McVeigh, New Essendon Senior Coach

    New Essendon Senior Coach Mark McVeigh joins Don The Stat, along with Scooter from Lunchtime Catch up and Fiona from Bomber Banter for his first interview since taking the job. McVeigh discusses what it means to return to the club where he played 232 games, the experiences that have shaped him as a coach and the lessons he brings from his time at GWS, the Allies and Sydney. We also explore his vision for the Bombers, the standards he wants to establish, his approach to developing Essendon’s young list and what supporters should expect as the club begins its next chapter. A wide-ranging introduction to the man entrusted with leading Essendon forward. 🔴⚫

  • #372
    August 20 · 58 min

    Round 24, 2026 | Essendon v Port Adelaide - Win for Pride or Lose for Pick One?

    The end of a long and difficult 2026 season has arrived but even the final game comes with a complicated question: do we desperately want one last win, or accept the benefits that could come with Pick 1? 😬 We review Essendon’s 36-point loss to Sydney, including the disastrous opening quarter and the pressure, tackling and turnover game that allowed the young Bombers to match the Swans across the remaining three terms. We also discuss: 🔴 Andy McGrath’s 200th game ⚫ What could be Zach Merrett’s final appearance for Essendon 📋 The biggest calls among the club’s out-of-contract players 🏉 The VFL side’s charge into its first finals campaign in seven years ⏳ The continued wait for Essendon’s next senior coach 📊 Where an injury-hit Port Adelaide can be exposed Can the Bombers produce one final spirited performance and send their supporters into the off-season with a win or will the wooden spoon at least deliver a valuable consolation prize? ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #371
    August 13 · 59 min

    Round 23, 2026 | 18th vs 2nd: Can Essendon Pull Off the Unthinkable?

    After a competitive opening at Kardinia Park, one disastrous stretch allowed Geelong to break the game open and condemn Essendon to a 67-point defeat. We review the loss to the Cats, examine the dramatic difference between Essendon’s best and worst periods, and look at the encouraging performance of Vigo Visentini, who produced 33 hitouts and 17 disposals in just his third AFL game. Then attention turns to Sydney. The Swans arrive at the MCG sitting second on the ladder, fresh from a 97-point demolition of Port Adelaide and armed with the most potent attack in the competition. It’s an imposing challenge but there may be a few chinks in their armour. 👀 We break down where Essendon can disrupt Sydney’s high-speed game, why the ground-ball battle offers the Bombers a genuine avenue of attack, and the pressure standards this young side must reach to remain competitive. Also on the agenda: 🔴 The costly collapse against Geelong 📊 What the numbers reveal about Essendon’s three coaching candidates 🏆 Tim Watson earns a Damian Barrett Award nomination ✍️ Dyson Sharp and Jacob Farrow commit until 2030 👀 Essendon’s approaches to Scott Pendlebury and Luke Pedlar 🏉 Could Bryan and Visentini form a two-ruck partnership? 💥 How do you contain Heeney, Warner and Gulden? Plus, we preview a massive weekend across the club: the VFL playing for a finals berth, the AFLW beginning its season at Windy Hill and the men attempting to disrupt Sydney’s push towards September. It’s the Essendon triple. Who’s taking on all three? 🔴⚫ ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #370
    August 6 · 1 hr 3 min

    Round 22, 2026 | Nowhere to Hide: The Young Dons Face Geelong

    The kids showed glimpses. Peter Wright kicked six. But a 72-point defeat proved there’s still a mountain of work ahead. 🔴⚫ In this episode, we unpack Essendon’s loss to Adelaide after fielding the youngest team seen in the AFL this season. We look at the exciting ball movement, the brutal drop-off in intensity, Jaxon Artemis’ breakout performance and a dominant afternoon from Peter Wright. 🌟 We also ask some bigger questions about the rebuild: 🏗️ How does this list compare with the one inherited at the end of 2022? 🥇 What should Essendon do if it holds Pick 1? 🧑‍🏫 Where does the senior coaching search currently stand? Then it’s down the highway to face Geelong at its Kardinia Park fortress. What makes the Cats so difficult to stop, where can the young Bombers challenge them, and what will it take to avoid another painful lesson? There’s nowhere to hide but there’s still plenty to learn. 🎙️ ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #369
    July 30 · 1 hr

    Round 21, 2026 | The Coaching Search Narrows - Who should Essendon pick?

    Essendon’s search for its next senior coach is reaching the pointy end, with Mark McVeigh, Murray Davis, Jaymie Graham and James Hird emerging as the leading candidates. We examine the coaching journeys, strengths and potential concerns attached to each contender and why development experience, leadership and alignment with the club’s long-term strategy must matter more than familiarity or profile. We also review Essendon’s 93-point loss to Hawthorn, exploring how a competitive opening unravelled as the enormous gap in experience, continuity and class took its toll. Plus, the latest on Sullivan Robey and Jordan Ridley, Dan McPherson’s resignation and what it means for the football department. Finally, we turn our attention to Sunday’s clash with Adelaide: the Crows’ strengths, the challenge facing Essendon’s undersized defence and what we want to see from the Bombers across the final four games of 2026. ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #368
    July 23 · 1 hr

    Round 20, 2026 | The Kids Are Alright: Can the Baby Bombers Rattle the Hawks?

    Finally, a win! Essendon’s young side produced a brave and mature performance to defeat the Giants by three points, giving Bombers supporters their first taste of victory in more than a year. We break down the pressure, tackling and stoppage dominance behind the win, the emergence of Dyson Sharp, Nick Bryan’s best performance as a ruckman and the encouraging signs from Essendon’s next generation. Then we turn our attention to Hawthorn at the MCG. Can the Bombers reproduce that intensity on the bigger ground, compete with the Hawks at clearance and prevent one of the competition’s best turnover teams from taking control? Plus, selection, Essendon’s coaching search and the latest draft discussion. ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #367
    July 16 · 1 hr 1 min

    Round 19, 2026 | Bombers vs Giants, Nate Caddy Commits & Coaching Search Heats Up

    After a bruising 90-point loss to Brisbane, the Bombers face another tough challenge as they take on GWS in Round 19. This week on Don The Stat, Jonathan Walsh and Ian Hume break down what went wrong against the Lions, including Essendon's struggles at the contest, the shift in defensive structure under Dean Solomon, and whether the final quarter offered any genuine signs of progress. They also discuss: 🔴 Dean Solomon's comments on skill execution and Nick Riewoldt's criticism ⭐ Nate Caddy's contract extension through to 2031 and what it says about Essendon's future 🏉 The latest on Essendon's coaching search and the growing media narrative 📈 Rick Edwards' July draft rankings and who the Bombers should target with Pick 1 ❓ A Patreon question on how long it really takes for a young list to become cohesive 🟠 Breaking down GWS's recent resurgence and how Essendon can turn the tables after letting a four-goal lead slip earlier this season 📺 And finally... which TV show best sums up Essendon's 2026 season? Can the Bombers produce a response, or will the Giants continue their push towards September? Listen now and join the conversation. 🔴⚫ ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #366
    July 14 · 41 min

    Rick Edwards July 2026 Draft Rankings

    Ian is joined by Rick Edwards to give his update for July for his 2026 Draft Rankings. Support Rick at his patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/RickEdwards _____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #365
    July 9 · 1 hr

    Round 18, 2026: Lions Await as the Rebuild Rolls On

    Essendon heads north to take on the reigning premiers in one of the toughest assignments of the season. This week on Don The Stat, Jono and Humey unpack another frustrating loss to St Kilda, but also examine the encouraging signs emerging beneath the surface under interim coach Dean Solomon. From improved defensive structure and clearance numbers to the development of young guns like Robey, Sharp and El-Hawli, is there more progress than the scoreboard suggests? The boys also discuss: The coaching search and what Essendon's football department could look like in 2027 The debate around Zach Merrett and whether the Bombers made the right call Essendon's bold move for Jed Walter How Brisbane has rediscovered its premiership form Selection news, tactical match-ups and the keys to challenging the Lions at the Gabba As always, there's plenty of stats, analysis and honest discussion as the Bombers continue laying the foundations for the future. 🎙️ Don The Stat — Proudly supported by our Patreon community. Go Dons! ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #364
    July 2 · 58 min

    Round 17, 2026: Can the Bombers Break the Cycle Against the Saints?

    Essendon returns to Marvel Stadium searching for just its second win of the season after another frustrating performance against North Melbourne. Jonathan Walsh is back from Europe alongside Ian Hume as the boys review the Kangaroos loss, discuss the concerning trends that continue to hold the Bombers back, and question some of the recent selection and positional decisions. They also unpack the club's coaching search, the latest on a potential AFL assistance package, Jack Bowes trade speculation, and hand out another Damian Barrett Lifetime Achievement Award. Plus, a full preview of Sunday's clash with St Kilda, including the Saints' strengths, selection changes, key match-ups, tactical battles, and what Essendon must do to give themselves every chance of causing an upset. As always, the episode finishes with final thoughts and reasons for Bombers fans to stay hopeful heading into Round 17. 🖤❤️ ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #363
    June 25 · 58 min

    Round 16, 2026: Can Essendon Get Revenge on North? Trade Rumours, Coaching Talk & Post-Bye Priorities

    The bye is over and Essendon returns for a big opportunity in their Round 16 clash against North Melbourne. With finals out of reach but plenty still to play for, Ian Hume and Josh Wilson break down why the final nine weeks of the season remain important for the Bombers' future. They discuss Essendon's disappointing loss to Melbourne, the key statistical areas that need improvement, and what Dean Solomon's game style comments could mean for the remainder of 2026. The boys also dive into: The latest coaching rumours and what Essendon should be looking for in its next senior coach Trade speculation surrounding Zach Merrett, Jordan Ridley and Darcy Parish Essendon's reported interest in Jed Walter and Lachie Neale Five things they want to see from the Bombers after the bye North Melbourne's improvement in 2026 and where the Roos can be exposed Selection headaches with Caldwell, McGrath, Parish, Kako and El-Hawli all returning Key tactical battles that could decide the game Predictions for Essendon's quest to secure its first Melbourne win in over a year Can the Bombers respond after the bye and gain revenge for their Round 3 defeat to North Melbourne? Tune in as Don The Stat previews a massive Sunday afternoon clash. #DonTheStat #Essendon #AFL ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #362
    June 18 · 1 hr 10 min

    Bombers Mid-Season Patron Q&A | Rebuild Reality, Coaching Candidates & Draft Dreams

    The Don The Stat Patreon community takes centre stage in our annual Mid-Season Q&A Special! With Essendon sitting at a crossroads in 2026, Ian Hume and Jonathan Walsh tackle a huge range of supporter questions covering the biggest issues facing the club. 🔴 Is there anything positive to take from the season so far? ⚫ Who should coach Essendon in 2027 – James Hird, James Kelly or John Longmire? 🔴 Can fans trust the club to make the right decision this time? ⚫ What should Essendon's list strategy be over the next two years? 🔴 Which experienced players should the Bombers target through free agency? ⚫ Who has actually improved this season? 🔴 What's the ideal midfield mix moving forward? ⚫ What does the future hold for Elijah Tsatas? 🔴 Should Essendon take Harry Van Hattum or Akay Barker at the top of the draft? Plus plenty more discussion on the rebuild, player development, culture, leadership, draft strategy and where the Bombers go from here. A huge thank you to all our Patreon members who submitted questions and joined us live for another fantastic Q&A session. #DonTheStat #EssendonFC #AFL ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #361
    June 14 · 1 hr 11 min

    Stay the Course or Start Again? Tommy Wolfe on Essendon's Future

    Is Essendon still on the right path, or has the club blinked at a critical moment in its rebuild? This week on Don The Stat, Ian is joined by Tommy Wolfe from Reading The Play (https://readingtheplay.wordpress.com/) for a deep dive into the Bombers' future following the shock departure of Brad Scott. Tommy discusses why he believes Essendon is still two strong drafts away from completing its talent base, where the Bombers sit compared to successful rebuilds such as Melbourne and Fremantle, and whether it's possible to sack a coach without abandoning a long-term vision. The conversation also explores: 🔴 Was Brad Scott the right coach at the wrong time? ⚫ How many more years should Essendon prioritise the draft? 🔴 The risks and rewards of chasing quick improvement through trades and free agency ⚫ Why some rebuilds succeed while others become stuck in AFL's middle ground 🔴 The growing momentum behind James Hird's coaching candidacy ⚫ Essendon's dream 2026 draft and trade period 🔴 The impact of Tasmania's arrival on list management ⚫ What Tommy would change about AFL drafting, free agency and list rules Plus, Tommy shares his journey with Reading The Play, his favourite Essendon memories, and why he believes the Bombers must avoid repeating the mistakes of "old Essendon." If you're interested in list building, recruiting, AFL strategy, and where Essendon's rebuild goes from here, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🎙️ Listen now and join the conversation. ___ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #360
    June 11 · 55 min

    Round 14, 2026: Can the Bombers Repeat the Gather Round Formula?

    Essendon heads to the MCG to face a Melbourne side that has transformed into one of the competition's most dangerous teams since the Bombers upset them during Gather Round. With Jono away in England, Ian is joined by long-time Don The Stat patron and tactical analyst Josh Wilson to break down Essendon's loss to Carlton, assess the early signs of the Dean Solomon era, and preview a massive challenge against the Demons. 🔴 Topics include: What Essendon did right at centre bounce against Carlton Why the Bombers continue to struggle with inside 50 connection Ben McKay's surprising impact as a forward Zach Merrett's move to half-back and whether it works The emergence of Nick Bryan and Sullivan Robey What's changed under Dean Solomon? Injury updates and the cavalry arriving after the bye Melbourne's rise into the top five Nick Bryan's biggest test yet against Max Gawn How Essendon can repeat the formula that worked in Gather Round Key match-ups and tactical battles to watch Plus, Ian and Josh discuss the future direction of the club, the continued development of Essendon's young core, and what success should look like for the remainder of the 2026 season. 📊 Don't forget to check out this week's Draft Rankings special with Rick Edwards and keep an eye out for Sunday's coaching and club direction discussion with Tommy Wolfe from Reading The Play. 🎙️ Like, subscribe and join the conversation. #AFL #EssendonFC #DonTheStat _____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #359
    June 8 · 47 min

    Essendon’s Rebuild Starts Here | Rick Edwards’ June 2026 Top 20 Draft Rankings

    Support Rick at his Patreon here - https://www.patreon.com/cw/RickEdwards With Essendon's 2026 season spiralling and the AFL Draft becoming the major source of optimism for Bombers fans, we welcome back one of the most respected talent watchers in the Essendon community — Rick Edwards. In this special Don The Stat episode, Rick reveals his exclusive Mid-Season Top 20 AFL Draft Rankings and breaks down the players every Essendon supporter should be watching ahead of the National Championships. We discuss: 🏆 The state of Essendon's season and whether Brad Scott's sacking was the right call 🏆 James Hird's coaching prospects and what the Bombers should prioritise in their rebuild 🏆 Why Harry Van Hattum is currently Rick's No.1 prospect 🏆 Arki Butler, Ethan Drever, Kodah Edwards, Harvie Cook and the other elite talents climbing draft boards 🏆 Who Essendon could target with multiple early selections 🏆 The latest on NGA prospects Justice, Bewick, Jed Naim, Darwish and Rodan 🏆 Rick's experience watching the Vic Metro vs Vic Country trial match 🏆 The players who could rise rapidly during the National Championships If you're already looking ahead to the future of the Essendon Football Club, this is the draft episode you've been waiting for. Don't forget to check out Rick's Patreon for exclusive training reports, vision and draft analysis, and follow him on X at @BomberRicko. 🔴⚫ #GoDons ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #358
    June 4 · 1 hr 4 min

    Round 13, 2026: Essendon v Carlton Preview | Rivalry Night, AFL Assistance & Can Solomon Spark a Response?

    Stubby Holder Form - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRJGhBVEqDn7pywRvnDCnybyQR8vvoeMoIaoIGa0QDx7hT0A/viewform?usp=dialog Essendon and Carlton. The ladder might say one thing, but this rivalry always means something. This week on Don The Stat, Jono and Humey review Dean Solomon's first game as interim coach following the Bombers' disappointing loss to West Coast and examine what, if anything, changed on-field. The boys dive into: The clearance dominance that failed to translate into scoreboard pressure Nick Bryan's emergence as a genuine AFL ruckman The departures of Ben Jacobs and Ben Robbins Another brutal injury update involving Archie May and Lewis Hayes Essendon's request for AFL assistance and what support could look like Whether key defence has suddenly become a list priority Carlton's resurgence under Josh Fraser The Blues' dangerous centre bounce game and how Essendon can combat it Selection dilemmas ahead of a huge Sunday night clash at the MCG Plus, the Damian Barrett Lifetime Achievement Award returns and an obscure stat about identical twins rucking against each other. All that and plenty more in another big edition of Don The Stat. Go Dons. 🔴⚫️🏉 ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #357
    May 28 · 1 hr 8 min

    Round 12, 2026: Essendon drama, Solomon Takes Over

    It has been one of the biggest weeks in recent Essendon history. After another injury-hit loss, this time to Richmond in Dreamtime at the ‘G, the Bombers sit 1-10 and anchored to the bottom of the AFL ladder. The fallout only intensified with the sacking of Brad Scott, another wave of media scrutiny, and Dean Solomon stepping in as interim coach. On this week’s Don The Stat Match Preview, Jono and Ian reflect on an emotional and draining week for the Essendon community, the deeper meaning behind supporting the club, and what comes next for the Bombers. The boys break down: The decision to move on from Brad Scott Whether Essendon’s long-term strategy can survive another coaching change The resilience shown in the Richmond loss despite more injuries Darcy Parish’s enormous Dreamtime performance Kane Cornes earning a Barrett Award nomination Mid-season draftee Jaxon Artemis and what he adds to the list West Coast’s improvement in 2026 and the challenge awaiting in Perth The tactical and structural changes fans want to see under Dean Solomon There’s also discussion around Essendon’s youth movement, list build, clearance struggles, Harley Reid, Bailey Williams, Jake Waterman and how the Bombers can respond after one of the toughest weeks the club has faced in years. A reflective, emotional and analytical episode from the Don The Stat team. _____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

  • #356
    May 26 · 32 min

    Ian reacts to Brad Scott's Sacking

    This was recorded on Patreon live earlier this evening. Ian gives his reaction to Brad Scott's sacking and interacts with Patrons. Jono will give his thoughts on our main show this Thursday

  • #355
    May 21 · 1 hr 1 min

    Round 11, 2026: Essendon v Richmond Preview, Media Noise & Contest Concerns

    ***Apologies for the audio quality, there were issues with the recording tonight*** Dreamtime at the ‘G returns, but this year it arrives with plenty of pressure surrounding both Essendon and Richmond. In this episode of Don The Stat, Jono and Humey break down the Bombers’ disappointing loss to Fremantle, including another poor start, contest issues around stoppage, and why the raw stats didn’t fully reflect how one-sided the game felt early. They also discuss the signs of improvement in Essendon’s forward half pressure and whether there was anything worth taking from the second half response. The boys dive into the latest media storm surrounding Essendon’s list strategy, including Jay Clark’s reporting on Adrian Dodoro, Harley Reid, Craig Vozzo and the club’s rebuild direction. They unpack the context around Essendon’s 2024 position, why the “all in” approach would have been a massive gamble, and how AFL media coverage continues to shape perception around the club. There’s also discussion around: Peter Wright’s injury and what it means for Nick Bryan Brayden Fiorini’s season-ending setback Essendon’s likely mid-season draft strategy Richmond’s rebuild and injury struggles Key tactical battles for Dreamtime at the G Whether the Bombers can handle the pressure if things go wrong on Friday night Plus the latest Damian Barrett Award nominee, Patreon shoutouts, and why Dreamtime remains one of the most important nights in football regardless of ladder position. 🎧 All that and more on this week’s episode of Don The Stat. Go Dons _____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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