Why Cripps is "unreal" to play with, according to Walsh

Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh is reaping the benefits of playing alongside skipper Patrick Cripps.

The duo combined for 70 disposals, 19 marks and 14 clearances in the Blues’ 15-point win over Brisbane at Marvel Stadium yesterday.

Walsh says Cripps' impact not just on him, but the whole club, has been a game changer.

“The impact that he has on the group on and off the field is quite amazing,” he told AFL Nation.

“He’s such a great leader and especially by action, he leads by the front, works hard and he obviously has copped a fair bit of attention but he just puts his head down and tried to help others around him.

“You’ve seen his ability to hit the scoreboard and work forward.

“He’s pretty strong in the contest and we reap the rewards of that.

“He’s unreal to play with and hopefully he can do it for plenty more years to come.”

The 19-year-old says Cripps' presence doesn’t just relate to his height.

“You think of the Jonathan Browns, those guys that have that presence in the room and when you walk into Carlton, he’s definitely got that presence,” Walsh said.

“His size for a midfielder (195cm) is ridiculous, really.”

The Blues will aim for consecutive wins when they face the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.