Survivor Heroes vs. Healers vs. Hustlers: Power rankings after episode 1
5. Mike Zahalsky (Healers)
In watching the first six minutes that were released prior to the actual premiere, it seemed as if Mike being singled out prior to the actual marooning was unfavorable to him. Put simply, it appeared he might be coming off as a joke. Then when he started hunting for idols immediately, he was confronted (and, in the opinion of some, bullied by Joe about it). While that all might seem negative, I think we could be set up for a very nice personal growth story for Mike. Once he settles down, he seems savvy enough to have a deep run into this game, a la David Wright on Millennials vs. Gen X.
4. Patrick Bolton (Hustlers)
Admittedly, I’m basing a large part of what we’ve seen from Patrick on what we saw looking ahead to episode 2. Though his red hair and pasty complexion made for some good Twitter fodder/jokes, he seemed to get along with most, especially Ali, as we already mentioned. However, in the preview, he’s seen basically continuing the goofball routine that was started with the whole “crab in my pants” deal. If he does that, he’s going to be just fine. For the most part, that type of player isn’t perceived as a threat, especially at this stage where he offers value as a challenge threat.
3. Chrissy Hofbeck (Heroes)
When it initially took place, I couldn’t believe what transpired at Tribal Council in episode 1. Specifically, Chrissy didn’t play the Super Idol she inherited from Ryan to save Katrina. What was even more shocking, however, was the votes revealed that she voted for her ally. But when we saw the preview for episode 2, things became a little more apparent. Not only can she still bluff with the Super Idol, but she sensed a fracturing tribe and is ready to capitalize by forming a new, stronger alliance than the Mom Squad.
2. Devon Pinto (Hustlers)
What a budding bromance we got to see once the Yawa tribe got back to their camp. Though starkly different in appearance, Devon and Ryan hit it off quite well — well enough, in fact, that Ryan revealed he had the Super Idol from the boat. While Devon undoubtedly has peak levels of stoked-ness at all times, he also showed that he has a bit of strategy to him in his game play. With his physical prowess as well, he’s in a great position as someone likable and with a strong ally.
Next: Survivor HHH: Episode 2 photos reveal a mystery and puzzle
1. Ryan Ulrich (Hustlers)
Speaking of that strong ally, it’s hard to not see Ryan as a Survivor archetype, especially given his situation in terms of the tribe he was put on. Whereas Patrick and Devon are both muscular and physically threatening (in the game, not dangerously), Ryan is far from that at “125 pounds soaking wet”. However, he’s also already proven to be extremely savvy. Not only did he form a strong alliance, but he was aware enough to find the Super Idol in the first place, then made a smart decision to give it to Chrissy — even if she didn’t use it to create the chaos we thought she would.