Collingwood's Brody Mihocek is set for a pivotal role in the AFL grand final, with the mature-aged rookie forward set to perform a defensive job on West Coast danger man Jeremy McGovern.

It's a huge task for the 25-year-old in just his 16th AFL game and a measure of the respect he has from coach Nathan Buckley.

Pies rookie Brody Mihocek waited a long time for his chance but has grabbed it with both hands. Credit:Joe Armao

McGovern, who signed a mega-deal this year that made him the highest-paid Eagles player ever, looms as a key figure for his side with his ability to intercept mark and set up counter-attacks.

"The last few times I've been on him and learnt different things each time," Mihocek said.