BRISBANE'S backline is already capable of handling life post-Luke Hodge, says coach Chris Fagan.
The veteran was a late withdrawal with a calf injury last week, and the Lions' defence passed another test with flying colours in a one-point win over Adelaide.
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Since overturning his retirement to join Brisbane prior to the 2018 season, Hodge has missed just four games, resulting in two wins and two losses.
The four-time premiership star was brought to the club to educate a young backline that includes Harris Andrews, Darcy Gardiner and Alex Witherden.
Luke's not going to play for the Brisbane Lions forever and he's trying to leave a legacy - Chris Fagan
Fagan believes that job is already done.
"I think we're ready now," Fagan said on Friday morning.
"We've had a few occasions in the last couple of years where Luke hasn't played.
"He didn't play (against Hawthorn) in Launceston last year in a game we won, we were able to beat Adelaide the other day.
"It's good to see when that happens."
Hodge has been named in Brisbane's 26-man squad to play Fremantle on Sunday, and Fagan said he saw plenty of good signs without the veteran to steer the ship last week.
"I think if he was standing here, he'd say to you that we didn't miss him much at all because other guys stood up in his absence, which is the idea.
"Luke's not going to play for the Brisbane Lions forever and he's trying to leave a legacy.
"We were really pleased with guys like Ryan Lester, Alex Witherden and Harris Andrews, their level of communication and organisation at the back end of the ground was exceptional.
"Hodgey's all about leaving a legacy, and there was a little example of that last week."
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