LOOKING BACK - 2013
Unlucky not to be named an All-Australian in 2012, Jacobs took a step back last season.
While he played every game and won the third-most hit-outs of any ruckman (622), his output dropped. He went from being the eighth-ranked ruckman (by Champion Data rankings points) in the competition in 2012 to the 21st in 2013. His disposals average fell from 13.4 to 11.3, goal assists from 12 to four and he was involved in just 15 per cent of Adelaide's scoring chains - ranked 38th of all ruckmen.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2014
A return to his best. Jacobs wasn't happy with his 2013 season, admitting he "rode the wave'' of his standout 2012 campaign, and has vowed to make amends. He went to work virtually as soon as the Crows' season finished, undertaking private training sessions away from the club to improve his fitness and agility. The early signs are encouraging. Jacobs has reported personal-best running times and has shed a couple of kilograms in a bid to cover more territory and influence more contests next year.
WHAT'S BEEN SAID
"It was a tough year. I probably just didn't hit the consistency levels that I did the year before. But I learnt a lot, including how important preparation is and I'm very happy with my running times and all of that stuff.''
- Sam Jacobs.