Although the Brisbane Lions will once again be onlookers in September, afl.com.au’s Michael Whiting takes a look at some of the positives gleaned from the Club’s 2013 AFL Premiership campaign.

More class in the mix
Previously if the ball wasn't in Simon Black's hands, Lions fans would cringe with it going into the forward 50. Now Daniel Rich is more consistent, and with Pearce Hanley and rookie Sam Mayes playing further up-field, they have class on both wings, more options and more optimism going forward.

Their best is very, very good
Often we saw it when they were trailing, but when the Lions were aggressive and took the game on they were exciting to watch. The extraordinary comeback win over Geelong, the big revival against North Melbourne and the late rally to scare Richmond were all examples of cracking open quality outfits when they chose to be daring.

Leuenberger looks a star
After an injury riddled start to his career and a complete wipeout of 2012 with an achilles problem, Matthew Leuenberger bounced back with a sensational season. The ruckman controlled the Lions midfield and is someone to build a team around. Not only is his tap-work among the League's best, his athleticism and work around the ground provide an important link in both attack and defence.

Twitter: AFL_mikewhiting