The Lions must penetrate Geelong's almost unbreakable home fortress on Saturday and then hope Port Adelaide can beat Carlton at AAMI Stadium later in the day to play finals.
Speaking at Brisbane Airport on Friday morning ahead of travelling to Melbourne, Lions interim coach Mark Harvey said he had not mentioned to the players the Cats' incredible record of winning 48 of their past 50 matches at home.
Curiosity was more the theme of his press conference, saying the Lions were eager to see how they would fare against a genuine premiership fancy.
"Our players are curious now to find out what we can do and what it may present," Harvey said.
"That's a unique situation and I think it's put the players on the edge of their seats knowing there's a lot to play for here.
"We've been relaxed the last couple of weeks. With the goings on at the club it's been a real focus to just be that way and get on with business.
"They're in a good frame of mind and that's all you can judge them on at this stage."
The Lions upset Geelong with a miraculous victory in round 13 at the Gabba, with Ash McGrath's after-the-siren bomb completing a rally from 52 points down.
Harvey was not sure whether that would inspire the Cats on Saturday, but said the Lions would have to start much quicker when playing on the road.
Brent Moloney returns after missing the past two matches with a hamstring injury, while Simon Black (groin) could not overcome his niggle.
Harvey said Moloney's presence would be crucial.
"When you play good sides you need experience and they need to talk to young players throughout the course of a game as to what they're doing or what they're not doing," he said.
"That's where he's been fantastic for the club, around stoppages, organising, telling younger players or making the decisions at time. He'll be invaluable tomorrow."
Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting
