Brisbane's worrying form slump ahead of the first Q-Clash of the season won't lull rivals Gold Coast into a false sense of security, Suns star Matt Rowell says.

Critics have come hard for the back-to-back premiers, whose flag defence is on shaky ground after three consecutive losses sent them sliding to ninth on the ladder.

Chris Fagan's men were been convincingly beaten by Geelong (41 points) and GWS (78 points) before last week's home loss to ladder leaders Fremantle (25 points).

But Gold Coast have beaten the Lions just twice in their last 15 attempts, and were mauled by 53 points in their most recent meeting, in a knockout semi-final last year.

Rowell admitted that loss still stings, while the Suns are also smarting from a six-point defeat to North Melbourne before last week's bye, when they coughed up a 43-point lead.

The Brownlow medallist expects a fierce contest at People First Stadium on Saturday.

"Brisbane have shown they're such a quality side over a number of years now," Rowell said.

"Even if they've had a few down weeks, you've always got to be at your best against a team like Brisbane, who have won the last two premierships."

Rowell is preparing for another battle with Josh Dunkley, who had enjoyed a strong record blunting his opponent before the Suns star broke the shackles in a big win over Brisbane last July.

"We've played on each other a bit, so I'm sure we'll match up on each other throughout the day," he said.

"I do (enjoy the battle). He's a very good competitor.

"You love going up against those players. I think he plays the right way. He's hard at it, a lot like their whole team."

Gold Coast (7-4) have also faced criticism after the horror fade out against North Melbourne, with a spotlight on their poor record following annual Darwin trips in recent years.

But Rowell dismissed suggestions there was a lingering physical toll from playing in difficult Top End conditions.

"I think we felt fine. I don't think it was fatigue or anything," Rowell said.

"It was probably more just mentally that we went away a bit from our game style and ball movement.

"I don't think it had anything to do with fitness or anything like that. We know we're a fit side."

Gold Coast pair Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (ankle) and Lachie Weller (hamstring) must pass fitness tests this week, while Will Graham is set to return from concussion.

Rowell said his own body is back to "100 per cent" after frustrating finger and ankle injuries denied him continuity early this season.