McPhee has been battling a hamstring injury and missed the last week's elimination final win over Melbourne and the round 22 clash with the Western Bulldogs.
The 21-year-old former Docker could only manage some light running and goal-kicking practice during the Bombers' MCG training session on Wednesday.
Despite this, coach Kevin Sheedy talked up his young charge before Wednesday's session, suggesting McPhee was improving every day.
His place in the side has been taken by veteran midfielder Mark Mercuri.
Geelong is unchanged, with young tyro Gary Ablett's troublesome ankle declared fit to take the field.
Intermittent rain has fallen throughout Saturday afternoon, leaving the MCG surface greasy, although conditions for the match itself are expected to be fine.
