The Tigers have now lost to North Melbourne and Collingwood by a combined total of 132 points over the last two rounds.
But Hardwick said the loss of key players to injuries and suspensions has largely contributed to the Tigers’ dramatic drop in form.
“Our guys to their credit have remained really positive,” he said after the 82-point loss to the Pies.
“We’ve copped a kick up the backside the past two weeks but from our point of view, we’ll go in, we’ll address the situation and we’ll look at some things that went wrong.
“I reckon at the start of the year we were happy to have four or five changes to find the right personnel but to have six this week doesn’t leave us in good stead facing the top side.”
The Tigers will regain Daniel Jackson from suspension to face Adelaide next week, while Will Thursfield (concussion) and Kelvin Moore (leg) are expected to be available after missing the clash with Collingwood.
Hardwick was again disappointed with his players' endeavour, and the easy way they were often outmuscled at the scrimmages in a game that was built up with Richmond being on the rebound.
“We thought we’d put in a better show too. We were disappointed,” he said.
“There were still some positives. I thought Dave Astbury was good, [Alex] Rance did some nice things also."
Hardwick said the Tigers would learn plenty from the one-sided clash against the side he tipped as the premiers earlier in the week.
“They are a quality outfit. There’s probably no side at the moment that’s going better than Collingwood.
“They really taught us a lesson. I thought their ball use was exceptional, their hardness in and around the contest and their pressure was first class.
“We really found it tough to get it outside our defensive 50 at stages. All credit where credit’s due, they’re a terrific side and that’s why they’re top of the ladder.”
