Going from 13th in 2016 to premiers the year after is in NO ONE's plan. But by finishing low they got a better draw.
They still lost games they should have won (Freo, GWS) but added 3 good trades, some younger players and made top 4.
Like WB the year before, Richmond hit form at the right time of the season and had its full squad available. The bye obviously makes a difference, as does playing all 3 finals on your home ground.
Call it the stars aligning. If they repeat it this year I'll be the first to congratulate them. WB failed to even make the finals.
The point? A good game plan (like 2013 manic pressure) together with good execution will put wins on the board.
Maybe a key forward crab like J. Riewoldt is all you need now. Come on down M. Taberner.