There were mixed expectations around Geelong heading into the season, but after seven rounds, it’s safe to say the Cats have exceeded many, if not all, of them.

Sitting on top of the ladder with six wins to its name, Geelong has catapulted into premiership favouritism, following impressive victories over Collingwood, West Coast and Essendon.

What makes the Cats such a scary proposition, is the fact that they are amongst the best teams in all areas of the ground.

They top the competition in points against per game, conceding an average of just 65 points, and are also a potent scoring side, averaging 96.4 points for per game, the second-most in the league.

It is their supremacy through the middle of the ground which makes these league-leading numbers possible, with a star-studded on-ball brigade consisting of Tim Kelly, Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield patrolling the midfield.

Many were skeptical whether Kelly could build on his outstanding debut season in 2018, but it seems he has, with the 24-year-old averaging 24.4 disposals per game and 5.1 tackles.

He leads the Cats in clearances, averaging 6.1 per match, and his ball use is levels beyond that of the typical second-year player.

Having a veteran such as Joel Selwood next to him has paid dividends, with the 30-year-old skipper set to return to the Geelong side after being rested last weekend against Essendon.

His return will be a welcome one for Cats’ fans, as Patrick Dangerfield remains under an injury cloud following his knee injury on Sunday.

Another one who is likely to rotate through the midfield is Gary Ablett, after his one-match sanction was overturned by the tribunal on Tuesday night.

Having spent the majority of the season inside forward 50, Ablett has been prolific having kicked 12 goals and sitting third and seventh in total score involvements and goal assists, respectively.

He’s formed a formidable partnership with recruit Gary Rohan, who has hit the ground running since his move from Sydney.

The former first-round draft selection has slotted 16 goals this season, which puts him in fourth position in the Coleman Medal race, ahead of key forward Tom Hawkins who has kicked 15 majors.

Down back, the defenders are functioning like a well-oiled machine, with the likes of Mark Blicavs teaming up with Tom Stewart, Jordan Clark and Jake Kolodjashnij.