What's in their favour? A new-ish coach in Brett Ratten who has the support of his players, a better game plan, which should stem the flow of opposition scoring, but primarily, three top-notch midfielders to soup up the engine room. The arrival of Chris Judd is obviously the cause of much excitement, but the return from serious injury of Nick Stevens and the recruitment of Brisbane's Richard Hadley gives the Blues plenty of midfield class and depth alongside the likes of Kade Simpson, Andrew Carrazzo, Heath Scotland, Andrew Walker, Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs.

What's not? Carlton's defence is still a major concern, lacking enough height and a top-notch running backman. It is also light on for experience. With Setanta O'hAilpin still developing, rookie Michael Jamison (eligible for senior selection as the Blues don't have a veteran on their list) may have to play out of his weight division alongside the Irishman and Bret Thornton. The Blues' spine generally needs settling, under-sized key forward Brad Fisher's untimely pre-season injury perhaps forcing Jarrad Waite forward more often than coach Ratten would like.

Stepping into the spotlight? Andrew Walker and Eddie Betts have had several seasons to learn the caper now and should both be ready to take the step from promising to pivotal players, Walker spending more time in the engine room, Betts as a dangerous small forward and occasional midfielder. Shaun Hampson and Michael Jamison are very raw but look ready to become regulars, the former in the ruck, the latter as a key defender. And No. 1 draft pick Matthew Kreuzer is a ready-made senior player, tall, agile and versatile.

In their wildest dreams? The classier-looking Carlton midfield led by new skipper Judd hits its straps, with gun spearhead Brendan Fevola the chief beneficiary, a young defence not constantly under siege finds some confidence and dash, and young Blues who have known little but failure discover the winning mentality. With all those stars in alignment, pinching a finals spot is not pure fantasy.

The reality? Judd and co. aside, Carlton's youth and inexperience across the board will make 2008 primarily another season of learning, with some encouraging wins likely to be balanced by some sobering defeats. Neither can the Blues afford a bad run with injury, particularly to their talls. Eight wins would be a good effort.

ROBERT WALLS 13th. The Blues are on the up, but Chris Judd is not Superman and a doubling of last year's four wins would suffice. With Judd and Stevens leading a more than handy midfield, Brendan Fevola will be given lots of opportunities. Jarrad Waite to defence is also a good move.

ROHAN CONNOLLY 15th The messiah might have arrived but his disciples are still feeling their way in the business of reviving a team. So, Judd aside, the Blues' ruck division and defence are still pretty iffy and the kids are still learning a very different game plan under a new coach.