Board Thread:Virtual Tribal Council/@comment-1294345-20171012081056/@comment-5002930-20171012193638

Star of the night was definitely Lauren. Like many, I thought she was toast heading into Tribal Council. But she killed it! Plus, the tribe may have done Patrick an act of mercy by booting him there. Poor guy was fucking red, and it was only Day 7! Who knows how red he would've gotten by Day 39, lol. Seriously though, I'm glad Ali didn't keep him in spite of their pre-game relationship. Would've been a huge mark against this season if that unfair advantage got both of them far.

Still think Ryan isn't overexposed. The editors have basically been forced to give him airtime because of the circumstances (super idol in the premiere, Hustlers going to TC in the last 2 episodes). Although I thought they should've shown Devon more. A 5-person tribe went to TC and he only got 1 confessional towards the end. Now, if Ryan continues to be shoved down our throats and his new tribe isn't losing, then I'll be annoyed.

Speaking of overexposed people, I'm pleasantly surprised that Joe was toned down this week. As many predicted, him and Mike being at odds put the power in Cole and the girls' hands. Even more surprised that Cole was taking the strategy role on the Healers this week. Hoping he drops Jessica and works with Roark and Desi. My 2 pre-game faves and the hot guy who's uncharacteristically showing (for his archetype anyway) some strategy would be fun.

Not much from the Heroes this week, but from what we were shown, Chrissy has successfully integrated herself. Alan's edit confuses me. Are they giving him the crazy, incompetent black man edit? And dear God, the close-ups of JP and Cole! Casting got it right with those 2 this year. I feel bad for JP though. Forced to strip in the premiere, followed by 2 weeks of other people calling him dumb. Must be hard to get rid of that dumb, young jock stereotype, you know?

Happy about the early switch next week. First time that they've done a switch on a season starting with 3 tribes before the fourth cycle. And do my eyes deceive me, or are they staying with 3 tribes? Should be interesting to see the new tribe dynamics. Overall, I'm pleased with this season so far. Already miles ahead of the last 2 seasons.