RIVALRIES don't get much bigger than Carlton and Essendon.

While the circumstances may be different tonight at the MCG, there will be one constant between these two teams: the desire for the four points, in the process taking home the Madden Cup.

01:14

Opposition Report | Round 4

Take a closer look at this week's opposition, brought to you by VRGF.

Tonight marks the 24th time the two sides will battle it out for the Madden Cup, named in recognition of brother Justin and Simon.

The brothers played 710 games combined for Carlton and Essendon, and are the only brothers in VFL/AFL history to have both played over 300 games. 

The first Madden Cup was played for in 1997, coinciding with Justin's retirement after his 332nd AFL game (287 with Carlton, 45 with Essendon).

08:25

Teague talks Bombers

David Teague spoke to the media prior to the Round 4 match against Essendon.

While Justin ran out for both teams, Simon played 378 games exclusively for the Bombers: the second-highest in their history. racking up an impressive 378 in the black and red (the second-highest in Essendon's history).

The two had storied careers, winning multiple premierships each: Simon also received three All-Australian honours, while Justin finished second in the 1985 Brownlow Medal.

Essendon has won the Madden Cup 13 times and are the current holders, while Carlton recorded it 10 times: its most recent was in 2018.

The Madden Cup will be contested once again this Saturday night at the MCG, with the match kicking off at 7:40pm.