MELBOURNE will head into the Queen's Birthday clash against Collingwood as clear favourite for the first time in more than a decade. 

The Demons haven't been the bookies' clear pick for the marquee game since 2005, when Melbourne was second and Collingwood in 13th spot.

Brownlow Medal race still wide open

Melbourne was a comfortable 47-point victor in 2006 but the result wasn't so clear-cut before the game, with the Pies sitting third and the Demons sixth.

Dees fans haven't had a chance to belt out the theme song since 2007, when high-flyer Russell Robertson booted seven goals in a 13-point win.

This time though, the tables have turned. 

It is a must-win game for Collingwood if it is any chance to make finals, with a loss leaving the Pies 4-8.

As of Monday, Melbourne was $1.62 with CrownBet while Collingwood was $2.30. Prior to round 11, the bookmaker had them both at $1.92.

Travis Cloke bagged seven goals in last year's match but comes into the game bereft of form, having only been brought into the senior team in round 10 following an injury to Darcy Moore.

The Demons won easily when the teams met in round four this year, with Jack Watts kicking four goals in a 35-point victory at the MCG. 

The fixture became an annual event in 2001. The Demons have a 4-10 record in that time, with one draw in 2010. 

In other betting news, North Melbourne enters its clash with Geelong as underdogs according to the bookmaker, despite sitting on top of the ladder.

"We're not sure that a team who are 10-1 have ever been outsiders going into their next match," a CrownBet spokesperson said.

"North are up against it this weekend against the Cats but they look to be a good bet at their current price."

The Kangaroos were priced at $2.10 on Monday while Geelong was $1.74.