BACK to back?

After claiming his first John Nicholls Medal after an outstanding 2021 season, Sam Walsh is once again primed for a high finish in the Club's best-and-fairest award, with the 22-year-old only missing two games. 

Walsh was awarded the vice captaincy in the 22Under22 squad as well as being named in the initial 44-player All Australian squad, collecting accolades for his consistent and comprehensive performances. 

Polling 14 votes of his own in the Brownlow Medal count, Walsh ranked second in the competition for effective disposals per game and third in total disposals per game – in short, he was a ball magnet through the middle, averaging 32 disposals. 

There were two occasions this season where Walsh collected 40 disposals, with one of those coming in Round 15’s win against Fremantle, which saw Walsh collect three Brownlow votes for his dominant performance, including 11 inside 50s and seven clearances. 

Playing a slightly higher role where he started across half forward, Walsh used his elite running ability to be Carlton's ideal link man, averaging five inside 50s and six score involvements per game.

Just like last week's Brownlow Medal count, he'll likely poll well in the middle portion of the season, but missing vital games in Round 1 and Round 23 - the only games he has missed in his career - might cost him.

Where Walsh averaged less clearances than 2021, his different role on the outside saw him increase his inside-50 numbers, while he was also keen to lend a hand in defensive 50 when the Blues were under fire.

Compared to Brownlow Medal winner and partner-in-crime Patrick Cripps, Walsh averaged four more disposals (32-28) and went at four percent higher disposal efficiency (74 per cent to 70 per cent) during his 20 games.

While their roles are slightly different, it could be splitting hairs when it comes down to voting between these two gun midfielders.