The media spotlight was placed firmly on the Blues, who were Finalists in 2013 and were being widely predicted to among the September action again this year.
They have since responded with four wins from their past five matches to sit just one game and percentage outside the top eight.
The Lions, meanwhile, have been anchored in 18th position since Round 4, with just the sole win coming against St Kilda in Round 6.
Assistant Coach Murray Davis believes the Blues are a far different outfit now than they were two months ago.
“Carlton are in good form – they’ve won four of their last five – even though they’ve had patchy periods in games,” Davis told LIONS TV as part of the Vero Coaches’ Wrap.
“Some of their more experienced and skilful players in (Marc) Murphy, (Kade) Simpson and (Dale) Thomas are really starting to hit some form…Waite looked dangerous at times up forward as well.
“They’ve got good depth in their list and it will be a great challenge for us.”
The Lions are determined to claim their first win on home soil for the season, particularly after coming so close against Essendon in the last match at the Gabba in Round 8.
It might sound simple, but Davis says a full four-quarter effort will go a long way to securing the four points this Saturday evening.
“For us it’s about being able to sustain the effort we’re after for longer periods and hopefully put them under enough pressure,” he said.
