The system is designed to give the top four teams an easier road to the Grand Final than the second four teams. The top four teams need to win only two finals to reach the Grand Final, while the second four teams need to win three. The two winning teams of the top four receive a bye in the second week of the playoff and then play at home in the third week, and the two losing teams play at home in the second week. Why? Why give the 5,6,7 & 8 teams a chance? Lets introduce teams 9,10,11 & 12 as well.
As I said...pure money making from the AFL.