Survivor - Pre-finale thoughts

Well Survivor: Samoa has its finale tonight, and I don't think it's any secret that I'm pulling for Russell here. And truth be told, I think he's got a solid chance at winning it. To me, it seems obvious that Brett is getting voted off if he doesn't get immunity. And even after that, I could see Mick or Natalie getting voted off in the final four, because of their general likability factor. Additionally, I could see any of the remaining players taking Russ to the finals simply because they think they can beat him. Some of them may even feel a sense of loyalty to him.

But the question is, if he gets to the finals, could he win? It seems like a long shot, but I think the answer is yes (if he's not going against Brett). Truth be told, he actually didn't lie to or betray all that many people. He was quite open about voting for people like Laura, Monica, and Dave. Hell, Dave has even commended Russell on his maneuvering, even when it was at his team's expense. Erik also seems exceptionally bitter at his tribe, so I could easily see him voting for Russ. Along with that, Shambo seems to understand that Foa Foa had to stay together, so she doesn't even seem particularly upset with Russell (who she was closest with).

Of course, one can't overlook the fact that Laura and Monica really disliked Russell. Just because he didn't betray them doesn't mean that they'd be willing to vote for him. Yet, at the end, sometimes these people come to respect those that outlasted them.

Finally, how wonderfully cocky was it when Russell opted not to play his immunity idol last week? Man, that was ballsy.

Anyway, throughout all the twists and turns, I think the biggest shocker was ultimately how incredible this season ended up being. In a lot of ways Survivor went back to its roots: Not much intervention from outside forces (like mixing up tribes or banishing people) and they basically just let the characters make the drama for themselves. Not too shabby for a show completing its 19th season.

Enjoy the finale -- TEAM RUSSELL!








Also: Please take a moment to fill out this WWE Year-End Survey - http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2LXGLNW