Brisbane has proven so much over the past 18 months, but the one remaining question mark is its ability to win when it matters most.

The Lions get another chance on Friday night when they host Collingwood at the Gabba, and veteran defender Daniel Rich says they're ready to atone for their past mistakes. 

Last season Brisbane was the Cinderella story of the competition, roaring into second place after the home and away season, only to lose against Richmond and GWS and bow out of the finals in straight sets.

Brisbane was super competitive in both matches, but little areas let it down.

Again, this season they are sitting pretty in the top four with four rounds remaining, but have come up short in much-hyped contests against Geelong and Richmond. 

Rich says there's a lot to consider when trying to identify why the Lions haven't got over the line in the big matches.

"A lot of it is to do with moments and flows of the game and being able to adapt in certain situations," he said.

"In the past, it's probably taken a little bit longer than it should have, so learning to pull the trigger on certain things a bit earlier (will help).

"That's a really big strength of our group, the guys learn from situations, whether it's good or bad, and take that in to what's next.

"They really thrive off those learning opportunities."

Brisbane has not beaten the Magpies at the Gabba since 2010, Rich's second season.

The long-kicking half-back missed the Lions' last start win against St Kilda with a hamstring niggle, but will resume his place this week.

In the midst of another strong season, the 30-year-old has had a patchy last month, missing three games in total with hamstring problems and another through suspension.

"The smart thing to do was make sure it's right, not risk it," he said.

"We've got some really good depth.

"There's not too much to worry about, I'm just getting older."