Survivor Edge of Extinction: Ranking the top five Tribal Councils

3) Devens uses idol after playing Ron’s expired advantage

The Advantage Menu that Ron discovered during the first episode was never played, but that didn’t make it useless. Ron Clark was a smart, strategic player, and I’m sure he was waiting for the right time to use the menu to his advantage.

The setting was the Final 7. Wardog was just eliminated, continuing the pattern of the biggest threats getting taken out. Devens was next on the chopping block, but Ron didn’t want him to feel too worried in case he had an idol. Enter the expired Advantage Menu.

Ron took Devens aside and wanted to prove his loyalty by giving him the menu. Rick was skeptical of it, but thankfully for him, he discovered an official Hidden Immunity Idol, leading up to a theatrical Tribal Council!

When the time came, Devens stood up to order Individual Immunity from his menu. Jeff suspensefully remarked that it is an official advantage, but it is expired. Cue the performance! Rick began to ridicule Ron and Julie by cruelly lying to him about the advantage when they knew he was getting the boot. And then, Devens turned around, pulling his idol out, stunning the jury!

It was a memorable idol play for sure and an awesome bit of theatrics to gain the jury’s favor. What made this Tribal so awesome was the scheming behind the scenes. Victoria wanted a backup plan in case Devens played an idol. She ended up getting Lauren, Gavin, Aurora and her Extra Vote on her side, throwing three votes Ron’s way.

Ironic justice was dealt, as Ron got his torch snuffed the same night he attempted to deceive Devens with the expired advantage. Overall, it was one of the most entertaining Tribal Councils of the season thanks to a balanced edit, big moves by several players and an exciting idol play.