The Western Bulldogs have indeed struggled significantly against top-eight teams in 2025:
- They hold a 1–6 record vs top-eight opponents up to their most recent match – their sole win being against GWS
- Recent defeats include losses to Lions, Pies, Suns, Cats, Hawks, and now Crows
- Coach Luke Beveridge admitted this week the team has “dropped six games against probably the established better teams in the competition” and will need broader contribution beyond relying on Sam Darcy
📝 Summary
- Wins vs top-eight: 1 (against GWS)
- Losses vs top-eight: 6
- Total games: 7 against current top-eight teams (record: 1–6)
- Consequence: This poor performance is dragging down their premiership hopes despite a solid 10–6 overall record and fourth place on the ladder
🔧 What it means
- The “flat-track” narrative continues: They dominate weaker teams but fail against quality opposition, earning criticism
- Structural challenges: Beveridge highlights the need for midfield balance, tackling, and consistent forward pressure against the best sides
- Upcoming tests: They face Brisbane next—a key barometer. Another loss could confirm their vulnerability against contenders.
✅ Bottom line
Yes—the Bulldogs have lost 6 out of 7 matches they’ve played against teams currently in the top eight (a 1–6 record). To solidify their standing (and finals chances), they’ll need drastic improvements in those big-match performances.
