The Magpies have recent lessons to lean on, having fought back in a gripping final quarter to pip their opponents by one point in an Adelaide Oval thriller only two months ago.
Matthew Nicks' Crows have since emerged as a genuine finals threat, putting McRae on edge ahead of Sunday's clash at the MCG.
"We've gone back to school this week on what we need to do well and what they're doing well," McRae said.
"Their contest is really strong, their pressure's really strong and they're one of the best scoring teams in the competition.
"We've got to make sure we defend really well ... we know we've got to bring the best version of ourselves.
"They're youthful, they're exciting to watch and it's going to be a great game."
A crafty goal-sneak in his playing days with Brisbane, McRae sidestepped questions this week about Adelaide's poor recent record at the MCG.
But Collingwood have noted the fact the Crows have lost at the famous venue on their last six visits, in a run that started with the Don Pyke-led 2017 grand final humiliation at the hands of Richmond.
Adelaide's most recent MCG appearance resulted in a seven-goal thumping from Collingwood, in round two last season.
The Crows are due to have a rare training run on the ground on Saturday before taking on the Pies.
"You won't get the vibe of a Collingwood-filled stadium but you will get a chance to have a look at the ground and the dimensions and get used to some of that," Adelaide coach Nicks said.
"But in the end, it's an oval. We've got to go and have a crack.
"It's really the opposition we're up against that's our biggest challenge."
Adelaide, who thumped West Coast by 122 points in their most recent outing, have named an unchanged side as they look to solidify their spot in the top eight by posting consecutive victories for the first time since round six.
Collingwood welcome back experienced duo Jeremy Howe and Jamie Elliott from injuries as they seek to reclaim top spot from Port Adelaide, who have played an extra game and have the bye this week, with victory over the Crows.
