UNDERSTANDING what's happening with the AFL's 6-6-6 starting positions goes much deeper than simply monitoring the scoring trends.

There's been only a slight uptick in overall scoring from centre bounces, although GPS data has revealed just how the new rule is impacting the sport – and for how long. 

Brett Munro, who works in game analysis at League headquarters, joins AFL.com.au's Marc McGowan on the Trends podcast this week to discuss how teams are reacting to the centre-bounce conditions.

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Clubs can no longer place extra numbers at the back of the centre square after a goal, but Munro explains the different ways they are defending.

The importance of winning the contested ball is also on the agenda, while Munro breaks down the frantic Melbourne-Gold Coast finish and Hawthorn's masterclass against the Giants. 

Trends is a podcast for the hardcore and average football fan who wants to learn more about what they're watching each weekend – plus what's going on behind the scenes.

Podcast summary

2:20 – What difference is the 6-6-6 rule making?
4:12 – How GPS data is heightening football analysis
5:21 – Why is scoring at a 50-year low?
8:10 – Coaches' on-field response to the 6-6-6 restrictions
10:18 – Melbourne pinches victory from the jaws of defeat
11:53 – An increase in games decided within four goals
13:11 – Teams are entering inside 50 wider more often
15:19 – How contested possessions and groundball-gets differ
17:56 – Ruck-gets on the increase with the new rules
19:56 – Hawthorn's round eight masterclass against the Giants