ADELAIDE midfielder Bernie Vince says fans should expect the Crows to take more risks against Richmond this weekend, claiming the club's conservative style is playing right into opposition hands.

After the team's worst defeat at home in 19 years last weekend against the Sydney Swans, Vince said he and his teammates must remain brave when in possession. He admitted they were caught playing it too safe against the Swans, kicking down the line too often and making it easy for the reigning premiers.

Coach Brenton Sanderson has already flagged several changes for the clash against the Tigers, and the positions of those selected are certain to be closely scrutinised post-match.

Vince said retreating into a shell in fear of omission was the worst thing players could do.

"You take risks to win games. If you think about the consequences of taking risks in games, you get worse," Vince said.

"We need to get back to doing that … just taking some risks. We're playing pretty safe at the moment, so we're going down the line a lot and not making opposition sides defend us.

"We're playing into their hands a bit, and I think you'll see a change in that this weekend."

The 27-year-old admitted Adelaide’s season was again on the line against the Tigers, as a loss would widen the distance between the Crows and the top eight.

Adelaide is a win behind eighth-placed West Coast, but if Carlton beats Hawthorn on Friday night and the Crows lose, the gap would extend to eight points. Vince described Saturday's encounter as "massive".

"I think [the season's] been on the line the last few weeks and it's been disappointing that we haven't beaten a top-eight side," he said.

"It's a massive game for us this weekend against Richmond, especially over there on the MCG.

"Richmond are coming off a really good win against West Coast over in Perth. They've had the bye as well, so they could come back pretty fresh.

"We've got our work cut out."