ADELAIDE ruckman Sam Jacobs credits an opening round litmus test against long-time rival Todd Goldstein for fixing flaws in his game.

The Crows take on the Western Bulldogs in a Saturday night blockbuster at Etihad Stadium with the man known as 'Sauce' back to his best.

Not only has Jacobs continued to dominate the hit-outs, but he has become more involved in general play as a crucial linkman in the midfield.

By his own admission Jacobs did not start the season he wanted to in Adelaide's loss to North Melbourne in round one.

All-Australian Goldstein showed why he's the premier ruckman in the competition, while Shaun Hampson also caused plenty of headaches for the Crows when they played Richmond.

"My marking hasn't been at the level I want early in the year, but the last few weeks it's been really good,'' Jacobs said.

"Goldstein was able to take a few marks against me at crucial times against the Kangaroos and Hampson was able to take a couple on me as well.

"I've made those adjustments and it's helped my game.''

Jacobs and Goldstein have faced each other many times since they were taken in the same draft.

Both players were bargain buys – Goldstein went to the Kangaroos with the 37th pick in 2006, while Jacobs had to wait until the rookie draft before going to Carlton with the first selection.

"I was a bit below my own expectations earlier in the year, but I feel the last two or three weeks I'm starting to get back to some pretty good form,'' Jacobs said.

''I feel that my body is in really good condition and that I've been contributing really well to the team.''

The Crows will welcome back midfielder Brad Crouch for the first time since round two.

Ricky Henderson also comes into the team to replace the injured Rory Laird, while Jarryd Lyons is the unlucky player to be squeezed out.

Henderson needs to play five games this season to trigger a contract extension for next year.

Crouch has missed the past three games with a hamstring injury, but proved his fitness with 36 disposals, 10 clearances and 10 tackles in the SANFL last week.

The 22-year-old was restricted to only four SANFL games last year with stress fractures in his foot.

"We expect him to come in and play his role for the team and that's in close and defending,'' Jacobs said.

''He's a pretty resolute lad and that will hold him in great stead going forward.

''We've got great belief in his ability and what he can do.

''It's just a matter of stringing some games together.

''Hopefully his luck's changed and he's able to do that.''

The Crows are aiming to repeat last year's epic elimination final win against the Bulldogs.

''Their game style is built for Etihad with a high-possession game,'' Jacobs said.

''We know the Bulldogs love spreading from defence with their handball and they're a high-switching team.

"Both of us can play that quick brand, but can also change the speed of the game.''