As the Brisbane Lions gear up for the second half of the 2015 season, lions.com.au has asked the journalists covering the team to analyse the year so far.

Today, afl.com.au's Michael Whiting has his say in the "The Mid-Season Verdict" series:

1. In one line, sum up the Brisbane Lions’ season to date:

Michael Whiting: After a poor first five weeks and then being destroyed by injuries, the young group is steadily improving and showing they can stick to a game plan.

2. What’s been the biggest positive of 2015 so far?

MW: The way the inexperienced backline has held up.

3. What’s the area that needs the most improvement?

MW: Skill and decision-making.

4. Best player in 2015 to date?

MW: Dayne Beams

5. Best young player in 2015 to date?

MW: Depends how you define young, but I'll go with Harris Andrews.

6. Most improved player in 2015 to date?

MW: Marco Paparone

7. In one line, sum up what a successful 2nd half of 2015 looks like for the Brisbane Lions:

MW: Consistency of both effort and performance should result in some wins against teams outside the eight, and competitive showings against the finals-bound teams.

8. What do you think of Brion the Lion?

MW: Clever innovation.