Round 18 has been arguably the most memorable round of the season.

So it's only fitting that it finishes off with one of the most anticipated clashes of the year.

Collingwood take on Adelaide at the MCG this evening in a match that will have a huge bearing on the make-up of the top eight.

If the Magpies win, they could go as high as sixth on the ladder and the Crows will slip two games behind the top eight with just five matches to go.

From that perspective, it's pretty much an elimination final for Adelaide.

But if Brenton Sanderson's men triumph, they will move into the top eight for the first time this season. They would be lauded for timing their run perfectly if that were to occur.

In that scenario, Collingwood will slip out of the top eight for the first time since Round 4

And with games against Port Adelaide, West Coast (away) and Hawthorn to come, the Magpies' task of playing finals footy this year would become a very tough one.

So to say there's a lot on the line this evening would be an understatement!

There is one late change at the MCG and it affects Adelaide.

Mitch Grigg replaces Scott Thompson and he will be the Crows' starting sub.

Ben Kennedy is wearing the green vest for Collingwood.

Adelaide are aiming for consecutive wins against Collingwood for the first time since 2006.

Collingwood are trying to avoid three losses in a row since Round 1 this year.

The Magpies haven't lost three consecutive matches in the same season since 2008.