I just read the recap...and I also had the same thoughts.....but.....I don't think Erika is winning immunity challenges, finding idols....liked as much as Xander and Ricard. Erika might win..... After watching one of the Ponderosas, I don't remember which season.....it came to light that the tribe discussed who they were voting for long before they asked any questions at the last tribal....that people at Ponderosa could influence each other based on conversations that never aired.

Gargamel wrote, "I’ve come to the conclusion that I like the 39 day format much more than the condensed 26 day format." Then sushipup2 responded, "Gargamel, no, there are still the number of hours of the shows aired, regardless of the 26 or 39 day format." Yes, sushipup2, the number of hours aired on tv remains the same, but I agree with Gargamel that the pace of the development of the show is much faster. There used to be a Tribal Council every three days, now it's every day. We would see what happens when the tribes get tree mail, and there were the days between Tribal Councils when the tribes would have a whole day at camp to search for idols and plot and scheme with other tribe members.

That was crazy! Why give up your immunity idol & trust anyone near the end? Gabler is the only one who doesn't "need" the money....but....he's smart and playing a really good game. Jesse may "need" the money, for his family...but that is too villian for the jury to back him. Karla is playing hard. I watched Amazing Race. I usually fall asleep, so I've missed a lot of it. That was a good WIN!

Never liked Josh. Wasn’t sorry to see him go.I think people are underestimating Carolyn. I know she’s a big goofball, but she’s also athletic and intelligent and she has the ability to sit back and observe the relationships and scheming among others. She flat out told people that Josh’s idol was a fake. She’s been smart enough to not play her idol. She won’t win though because she gets under people’s skin. Good episode.