Carlton is still hunting its first win of the season, while the Bombers had a win over the Kangaroos in Round 1, before falling just short against Hawthorn last week.
The Bombers are expected to make at least two changes. Jake Melksham is available to play, having served his two-match suspension from the end of last season.
Meanwhile Paddy Ryder has all but ruled himself out of playing on Sunday night, after suffering an ankle injury in the clash with Hawthorn.
In Ryder’s absence in the second half of the match against the Hawks, Essendon used Joe Daniher and Jake Carlisle in the ruck. But this week the Bombers may opt to upgrade rookie ruckman Fraser Thurlow to make his debut.
With both matches between Carlton and Essendon last year decided by just a kick, the stage is set for a fiery showdown on Sunday night at the MCG.
Head-to-head
In 239 contests, Carlton has won 121 games to Essendon's 113. There has been five draws.
Last five results Blues v Bombers:
Round 22, 2013
Carlton 9.22 (76) def. by Essendon 12.10 (82)
Round 11, 2013
Essendon 11.11 (77) def. Carlton 10.12 (72)
Round 21, 2012
Essendon 8.12 (60) def. by Carlton 24.12 (156)
Round 4, 2012
Carlton 11.13 (79) def. by Essendon 15.19 (109)
Elimination Final, 2011
Carlton 21.23 (149) def. Essendon 13.9.(87)
