THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Preseason Power Rankings

July 10, 2013 David Bloom 2 Comments

Are you ready?

Tonight’s main event has crept up on me like an over-hyped hurricane (thankfully not of the Nia nature) that was detected by meteorologists so early on that I could not possibly believe it to be real (despite the evidence delivered by the first teaser trailer only a handful of weeks ago), but now, as 10:00 p.m. EST tonight fast approaches, I can hardly believe that this is actually happening. Brace yourselves. There’s a storm coming, Mr. Wayne!

Back in February, when the MTV blog tantalized fans with the prospect of an All-star 24th season of The Challenge (Originally an offset of the Real World and Road Rules, this American competition institution allows past cast members to extend their fifteen minutes of fame to sometimes unprecedented durations while competing in a series of elimination competitions that all lead to a death defying (I wish I were kidding) final challenge. The team who wins the final challenge wins a fair amount of money. T. J. Lavin has been the stalwart and often heroic host for many years now (“He killed it!”) and will be (hallelujah!) yet again for Rivals 2) and asked for a public vote on who should participate (and, as in the NBA, not all players make the all-star ballot), I presented my picks (12 men, 12 women, 1 wildcard chosen for each gender from players not on the ballot) as a pipe dream of possibility. Five month later, MTV has delivered on this promise in the most wonderful of ways. With a roster of 16 men and 16 women featuring essential veteran players (Johnny Bananas! CT! Paula! Sarah! Camila! Wes!) and a crop of promising younger talent (Leroy! Frank! Zach! Nany! Marlon!), Rivals 2 was born. Although not an All-star season in name, Rivals 2 is unequivocally an All-star season in talent and scope. The Rivals format that places two historic enemies on the same team, demanding a cease-fire in the pursuit of a monetary windfall, is a structural win. Great moments will arise (Who can forget Kenny literally carrying Wes on his back in the finals of Rivals I?), long lasting and redemptive friendships will be born (Laurel and Cara Maria built an incredibly supportive bond on Rivals that exemplified what it meant to be a great teammate), and you may even learn how to replicate every detail of a campsite while carrying a literal ball and chain (this is also known as “a walk through a simulation of hell”).

This season’s pairings of competitors on Rivals 2 are notable for two things: hardly any of them are in fact Rivals (Did MTV producers give the green light on the structure after having only signed up CT and Wes or after only having read the Zach and Trey’s twitter interactions? Dunbar doesn’t even know “rival” Tyrie’s last name!) and, beyond a few teams that are clearly at the top and bottom of the totem pole, there is an argument to made that most teams have a legitimate chance to go to the finals. This wide open competitive landscape with few clear alliances gives a win to dramatic potential and an opportunity for anything to happen.

My team previews already exhausted ten thousand words on the prospects of our competitor tandems (if you read all of them, much credit is awarded), but before I hit the preseason power rankings, here are a few additional thoughts on the season:

The Fifth American Major Professional Sport – Yes, this has been a moniker for The Challenge, expertly conceived by Bill Simmons and his Czar of Reality TV, David Jacoby, so many years ago, but for the first time, its hyperbolic essence may be waning. Like American’s niche relationship with the NHL outside of Detroit and Denver in the mid-90s through at least the first lockout, you are either a diehard fan of The Challenge or you are not a fan at all, and for the first time, the diehards are growing and are really coming out to support. Certainly the twitter revolution (admittedly effecting my own power rankings commentary this week) has played a critical role, creating a direct line of access and a platform for fan connection (only the David Stern Retirement Tour has been this clairvoyant in other major professional sports with the use of new media and new technology). This has fostered growth in the brand and in the intensity of fandom. Already of the highest level of athletic competition and with a finals that is infinitely more interesting than any component of the “too late for youngsters time of night advertisement fest destroyed by the annoyance of listening to Joe Buck” that is the MLB playoffs, The Challenge may actually be the fifth major American professional sport.

Where is Laurel? – The truth of the why concerning the exclusion of Evan and Kenny (both are Challenge royalty) from Rivals 2 (and other recent Challenges) is likely imbedded somewhere in a legal document drafted by Tonya Cooley’s lawyers, but there is no explanation why Laurel (3 seasons, 3 finals) is not a part of this seven week Thailand adventure. Her Amazonian awesomeness will be sorely missed.

The Challenge is like the United States Men’s Basketball Team…

Rivals I and Battle of the Exes were like the 2008 Men’s Olympic Basketball Team. They featured the best players in the world (Kobe, Johnny Bananas, Lebron, Kenny, Laurel, DWade, Evan, Ev, the 2008 Dwight Howard, CT, Melo, Paula), some aging veterans who everyone respected (Jason Kidd, Mark Long), and a few random players that everyone forgets about (Michael Redd, Tayshaun Prince, Davis, Katelynn). If an apt comparison, Battle of the Seasons was like the 2010 World Championship Team. Some of the best veteran players took the summer off (no Kobe, Johnny, CT, Lebron, Paula, etc.), allowing some on the verge younger talent to gain some experience out of the shadow of the big boys (Kevin Durant, Frank, Derrick Rose, Zach, Russell Westbrook, Nany, Dustin, Derrick Rose). Rivals 2 is like the 2012 Olympic Team. Kobe, Lebron, and Melo are back (Johnny, CT, Paula), DWade and Howard are injured (Kenny and Evan – sorry to you both, I don’t particularly care for either Dwyane or Dwight), but the young talent of Durant, Westbrook, and Love (Frank, Zach, Nany) are now ready to play with the big boys. (Yes, I spent too much time coming up with this. Yes, in this “filled with holes” metaphor Dustin Zito is Derrick Rose.)

As usual, alliances will rule, but it sure could be confusing. – We do not yet know the official rules (revealed to the cast on the first episode), but if it is at all similar to Rivals I, alliances will still be as important as ever. What makes the possibilities this season so interesting is that the lines between veterans and rookies and connections and enemies are more blurred than ever. Let’s go down just one rabbit hole: of course Johnny (and subsequently Frank) will be closely aligned with Paula (and subsequently Emily). Here’s where it gets interesting – Emily and Paula, from past relationships, should be closely aligned with Ty (partnered with Leroy who got along with Johnny really well on Exes and Rivals I). This all makes sense so far. Johnny’s partner, Frank, is going to be close with Zach (partnered with Trey) from their Team San Diego days. Zach, no longer involved romantically with Jonna, is going to have an adversarial relationship with Jonna and Nany. Nany, dating back to her Real World: Las Vegas days, will be connected to Leroy. This could be problematic for Leroy if he aligned with Johnny and Frank and Trey and Zach because they will have beef with Jonna and Nany. Where is Jenn (with two “n”s) when we need her to be the consummate “playing both sides” figure in this game? (Also, why is Jenn not on this season). How all of these alliances fall is anybody’s guess. Beyond some very clear unbreakable bonds, I expect some “sorry Paula, we are choosing Ev instead of you”-esque alliance destruction throughout the season.

There are many pursuits of a first The Challenge win, but Sarah’s is the one we care the most about…

There are several competitors this season who have been on at least six Challenges and have never won (CT, Aneesa, Diem, Tyrie who has yet to even be near a finals), but no pursuit of a first championship quite captivates our heart like Sarah’s (now in her seventh straight season attempt). Sarah embodies all that is good in a The Challenge world that too frequently becomes a series of drunken, violent, and embarrassing “extracurricular nighttime activities.” Her drive to compete is so earnest – she is a throwback to simpler time when competitors care most about the love of the game. Any time the great T.J. Lavin announces a traditional one-time a season trivia contest (as I am sure he will again this year), Sarah’s spontaneous infectious and contagious display of joy provide the viewer just that. She is someone we can all root for, and, with a savvy and driven partner like Trishelle, she has as good a shot as she has ever had before at finally winning.

On to the rankings…

As became tradition last year during Battle of the Seasons, the individual competitor power rankings and team power rankings will be released weekly sometime shortly after each new episode airing. Here are the individual and team rankings going into the season. Some postseason award and final predictions will follow…

PRESEASON RIVALS 2 INDIVIDUAL POWER RANKINGS

NOTE: the rankings will again be based on my un Zach Lowe-like analysis/sabermetrics method known as “My subjective experience and observations watching all 24 seasons of the show.” Weight will be given to how well teams and individuals do on competitions, on strategy and in the social game, and whether he or she is a “good competitor.”

THE MEN

1. Johnny Bananas (9th season, 5 finals, 4 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Records held: Most Season Appearances, Men – 9 (tied), Most Seasons Won, Men – 4

Tweet comment: Legendary and undisputed Challenge king primed to make triumphant return. Found the perfect balance between strategy and athleticism.

2. CT (9th season, 4 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Records held: Most Season Appearances, Men – 9 (tied)

Tweet comment: Perennial #1 Challenge intimidator, recently mellowed. Must find way to manage collective animus toward Wes, fight off lady distractions.

3. Frank (2nd season, 1 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Temperamental Extracurricular Nighttime Activity wild card, but strategic mastermind of BoS win. A Johnny Bananas in training.

4. Zach (2nd season, 1 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: “Thor” is physical beast, gave mostly (Sam may object) calming force on Team San Diego BoS win. Must find way to get along with enemy Trey.

5. Wes (8th season, 3 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Records held: Most Elimination Rounds in a Single Season, Men – 5, Most Elimination Wins in a Career, Men – 11

Tweet comment: Arrogance & self-proclaimed brilliance aside, has had amazing Challenge resiliency amidst slew of enemies. Must find a way to work with CT.

6. Dunbar (6 seasons, 1 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Often on wrong alliance, faces upward battle with yet to prove himself, Tyrie, as partner. Must rely on experience and strength to succeed.

7. Ty (4th season, 1 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Coming off great performance on BoE, must continue to ride that momentum, stay out of conflict. Leroy is ideal partner to keep Ty in check.

8. Leroy (3rd season, 1 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Most welcome return after 1 season off, has to excel in social game & manage potential Ty outbursts. Takes care of business in challenges.

9. Derek (3rd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Had very successful run on Team Cancun on BoS, great team player. Will work well in social game, but impressive in challenges too.

10. Robb (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Bulked up in offseason, already huge dude. Derek fight non-factor. Could break out this season w/o Marie. Social game prowess is unknown.

11. Knight (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Left BoS riding a little momentum, primed to be strategy power player in future. Can he motivate Preston and keep things positive?

12. Trey (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Unexpected major feud (at least in social media) with Zach. Athleticism and drive to be great will supersede bad blood. Could go far.

13. Marlon (Rookie season)

Tweet comment: Great addition to The Challenge. Ready to have a big rookie campaign. Well-matched with Jordan athletically. Will surprise people.

14. Jordan (Rookie season)

Tweet comment: Fulfilling Challenge destiny, will be perfect fit as freak athlete. Must tweak social game. Partnership w/ Marlon: Leroy/Mike in Rivals I?

15. Tyrie (6th season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Yet to prove much in 6 seasons, strange partnership w/ Dunbar. Although overdue for success, still likely early exit. Weak in social game.

16. Preston (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Not quintessential Challenge material, but apparently, he can run! Mostly poor showing on BoS. Gained some confidence toward the end.

THE WOMEN

1. Paula (10th season, 4 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Records held: Most Season Appearances, Women – 10, Most Appearances in a Final, Women – 4 (tied)

Tweet comment: Longest tenure in Challenge history, much wiser & stronger now. Great w/ strategy, amazing partner in Emily. Close ties to Johnny Bananas.

2. Sarah (7th season, 3 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Records held: Most Consecutive Seasons, Women – 7

Tweet comment: Just an amazing person. 7 straight Challenges, due for a win. Trivia master and has great relationships. Will partner well with Trishelle.

3. Emily (3rd season, 2 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Yet to win a finals, best position yet with Paula as partner. Most athletic women this season (no Laurel!). Rivalry with Paula non-issue.

4. Nany (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Resilient, strong, willing to step up for her team. Well-matched w/ Jonna. Left BoS too soon. Must stay grounded, esp. while intoxicated.

5. Jonna (3rd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Out of Zach romance, can have more focus on Rivals 2. Will partner well w/ Nany. Must exhibit next level strategy. Strong in challenges.

6. Camila (5th season, 1 finals, 1 win – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Ready for comeback season after Big Easy debacle on BoS. Killer instinct, drive like no other but must be corralled. Jemmye as partner? Yes!

7. Trishelle (4th season, 1 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Made strong comeback on BoS after many years away. Wants to win – rivalry will be non-issue with Sarah. Must push herself a little harder.

8. Diem (7th season, 2 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Courageous and incredible in real life – fought cancer twice. Struggled at time on Challenges. Relationship with CT can be a distraction.

9. Jemmye (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Predict a breakout season. Sneakily good athlete, committed, well-liked, will get along with Camila. #Team subtitles could be surprise.

10. Aneesa (9 seasons, 2 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 23)

Records held: Most Elimination Wins in a Career, Women – 8

Tweet comment: Challenge veteran back for an 8th season. Hasn’t been in finals in some time. Endurance has always been an issue, but in best shape ever.

11. Jasmine (4th season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Seasons 23)

Tweet comment: Took major positive steps on BoS. Valuable member of Team Cancun. Still must fight against small frame. A calmer version of former self.

12. Theresa (4th season, 0 finals, o wins – last appearance: Rivals 21)

Tweet comment: Took past 2 seasons off, must build up some new relationships. She and Jasmine will be physical underdogs – good to be under the radar.

13. Cooke (Rookie season)

Tweet comment: Professional Filipino soccer player, how long will she be partnered w/ Naomi? Must make good alliance decisions or face early elimination.

14. Jessica (Rookie season)

Tweet comment: Should be a classic rookie – happy to be there, but early elimination. Counting on dirt biking (her forte) in one of the challenges.

15. Naomi (2nd season, 0 finals, 0 wins – last appearance: Battle of the Exes 22)

Tweet comment: Rumored to leave early, nothing to do with game. Unproven. Challenge may not be best forum for her.

16. Anastasia (Rookie season)

Tweet comment: Breakout star of Rivals 2 trailer w/ CT slap. Could put target on back. Not someone you would expect to bring much to table athletically.

RIVALS 2 TEAM RANKINGS

Note: Team rankings are compiled by averaging the two individual rankings. Teams with the lowest total average rankings are ranked better than the highest (i.e. you want as few points as possible). First tiebreaker goes to number of total past wins. Second tiebreaker goes to years of experience.

Johnny and Frank – Team Average: 2
Paula and Emily – Team Average: 2
CT and Wes – Team Average: 3.5
Sarah and Trishelle – Team Average: 4.5
Nany and Jonna – Team Average: 4.5
Ty and Leroy – Team Average: 7.5
Camila and Jemmye – Team Average: 8
Zach and Trey – Team Average: 8
Diem and Aneesa – Team Average: 9
Derek and Robb – Team Average: 9.5
Dunbar and Tyrie – Team Average: 10.5
Jasmine and Theresa – Team Average: 11.5
Knight and Preston – Team Average: 13.5
Marlon and Jordan – Team Average: 13.5
Cooke and Naomi – Team Average: 14
Anastasia and Jessica – Team Average: 15

Postseason Awards and Predictions

MVP – Men: Johnny Bananas (runner up: Leroy); Women: Emily (runner up: Sarah)

Most Improved Player – Men: Trey; Women: Jemmye

Rookie of the Year – Marlon

Some bold predictions:

Both Marlon and Jordan and Camila and Jemmye will come very close to making the finals, but fall short.
Dunbar and Tyrie will learn each other’s last names, but will not be able to avoid an early elimination.
There will be a moment in which Johnny, Frank, and Trey strategize together.
Jasmine will not do too well in terms of competition, but will continue to showcase a more mellow version of herself.
Cooke will have a moment on the show that everyone is talking about.
CT and Wes will be on the wrong side of the alliance and will have to prove themselves in an elimination early on.

Teams in the Finals – Men: Johnny and Frank, Ty and Leroy, Zach and Trey; Paula and Emily, Sarah and Trishelle, Nany and Jonna

Winners – Men: Johnny and Frank, Women: Sarah and Trishelle

My first episode recap and Week 1 power rankings will be out sometime later this week. Enjoy this season!

David J. Bloom can be reached on twitter @davidbloom7 and writes about MTV’s “The Challenge,” pop culture, and the NBA for Bishop and Company. His “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ power rankings will post weekly starting on July 10.

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THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Zach and Trey

July 7, 2013 David Bloom 3 Comments

This is the sixteenth (and final!) in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: on Tuesday, The Challenge: Rivals 2 Weekly Power Rankings – Week 1

ZACH and TREY

Where did we last see them? Both were rookies on Battle of the Seasons. Zach, as a key cog in Team San Diego, won in the finals. Trey, often ignored by Marie on Team St. Thomas, was not so successful.

The Rivalry: On Battle of the Seasons, they did not get along too well, but since, they have been on social media attack mode (see more below).

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“The male team that poses the biggest physical threat… is also the one fraught with the most bad blood. Zach and Trey hate each other and neither is afraid to express it.”

Wow! This is frankly a little unexpected. I wasn’t aware that they had all that much to do with one another on Battle of the Seasons.

“Zach seethes, ‘Trey is your typical douchebag. He’s the friend no one likes. He’s truly a disgusting human being and now I gotta carry Mighty Mouse to a final.’”

Zach, please don’t hold back.

“Their feud has even spread to social media, where Zach assailed Trey’s character in interviews and on Twitter. As Trey explains, ‘At first those things kind of bothered me and then I realized Zach is just a really insecure bitch. He wants everything to go his way because he’s the biggest dude in the house.’”

Yeah, so it is game on for these two. We might actually have a “rivalry” on Rivals 2 that is currently at war (albeit over social media).

For Trey, though, this Challenge is about redemption. After a disappointing debut last season, this Baltimore boy yearns to make a name for himself and finally impress his peers with his athletic ability.

Yeah, Trey had a some difficulties acclimating himself on Battle of the Seasons. His will to win is not questioned and he and Zach will both have this in common, but Trey must learn how to better manage the social game. With Frank and Johnny a pair and Zach and Frank besties for life, Trey would be smart to immerse himself in the Johnny Bananas power structure and learn from a master.

Best-Case Scenario: With a little good fortune and some surprise power team eliminations, Zach and Trey make it to the finals and have a realistic shot to win.

Worst-Case Scenario: The twitter smoke is an actual fire that has too far spread. A dispute in a challenge puts them in an early elimination and they are taken out by a team that does not share their dysfunction.

The Verdict: Maybe not the “biggest physical threat” as the MTV Bio suggests, Zach and Trey are in the conversation, and, besides Johnny and Frank, I am not sure there is a more competitive pair. Zach continues to grow in gameplay and I think his management of Frank (and his potential volatility) was one of the most underrated elements of Team San Diego’s success. Both Zach and Trey must put aside whatever animosity has been fostered and focus on how to use their relationships and physical abilities to their advantage. I think the intensity of their respective wills to win and wills to prove themselves will overcome any unnecessary hatred.

Watch the Robb and Derek’s pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

David J. Bloom can be reached on twitter @davidbloom7 and writes about MTV’s “The Challenge,” pop culture, and the NBA for Bishop and Company. His weekly “The Challenge: Rivals 2” power rankings will begin the week of July 10.

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Robb and Derek

July 7, 2013 David Bloom 3 Comments

This is the fifteenth in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Zach and Trey, the final men’s team

ROBB and DEREK

Where did we last see them? Robb (with two “bs”) and Derek both deservedly earned some The Challenge respect for some strong gameplay on Battle of the Seasons.

The Rivalry: Robb and Derek had an “in your face” drunken exchange in the middle of a bigger battle on Battle of the Seasons that involved Marie, JD, and Marie pushing Sam into a flower pot (tough moment). Both Robb (in this case Marie) and Derek (in this case JD) were defending other people when they directed their pugnacity at each other.

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“Robb and Derek can finally laugh at their shirt-ripping confrontation on Battle of the Seasons. Derek jokes, ‘My fight with Robb was one of the dumbest things I’ve ever done. He would’ve killed me and I look like a little Chihuahua!'”

Finally! It took them long enough! In all seriousness, this little spat was over before it began (despite providing producers a great pre-commercial cliffhanger when it looked like something real was taking place).

“Not only has Robb put the past behind them, but has also been training hard since his last Challenge, adding 40 lbs. to his 6’6″ frame.”

This is significant news for the competition. Robb was always a good athlete, but added weight to his NBA small forward frame could make him a serious factor in challenges.

“‘We are very well rounded. I know he can probably endure just about everything. I suck underwater; he’s awesome underwater. And I think we’re both pretty smart,’ Robb says.”

They are both “pretty smart” and Derek will have a good handle on how to connect to some of the more difficult personalities. Derek’s calming, stable presence on Team Cancun on Battle of the Seasons was an essential ingredient to their success and he will be even better one year more experienced.

Best-Case Scenario: Riding a balanced approach that centers on Derek’s swimming and social game prowess and Robb’s utilization of a game-changing physique, they find themselves with a chance to make the finals.

Worst-Case Scenario: With not too many clear friends in this group of competitors, they are on a little island of positivity that is unprotected from an early elimination throw-in.

The Verdict: Robb and Derek, although an unlikely pairing and not of the most heated of rivalries, have a very positive combination of skills, attributes, and strengths. They may not be dominant at anything, but I think they can be good at everything. As long as they stay out of the bottom on challenges and remain socially neutral or in the middle of the power structure, they could stick around for some time. With some more divisive personalities in play, I would not be surprised if Robb and Derek stay right below that radar.

Watch the Robb and Derek’s pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Preston and Knight

July 7, 2013 David Bloom 3 Comments

This is the fourteenth in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Robb and Derek

PRESTON and KNIGHT

Where did we last see them? Preston and Knight shared their first The Challenge as members of Team New Orleans on Battle of the Seasons. Preston was a little bit of a struggle throughout and Knight’s play picked up when he and Jemmye were left to fend for themselves after Preston and McKenzie were eliminated. Also of note: Knight decided to throw Nany’s clothes into the pool for no apparent reason.

The Rivalry: These two have been butting heads since The Real World: New Orleans. It seems like their relationship largely consists of Knight putting Preston down.

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“Knight and Preston go together like gym socks and high heels, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t a force to be reckoned with.”

Yes, Knight and Preston have always had their difficulties finding the right mix (or simply liking each other), but to their credit, they both have very strong personalities that will be heavily involved in the strategic and social machinations of this game. Preston seemed to gain a little more confidence and drive toward the end of his stint on Battle of the Seasons, so maybe he is ready to begin this season with a similar energy.

“Knight reveals, ‘People look at us and are like, ‘Hey, we want to bring these guys to the Final.’ What they don’t know is Preston is a runner. Preston can run for days.’”

This revelation – that Preston can “run for days” – could be an underrated factor this season. Knight is just beginning to flex his muscles as a strategic player and will have worked on some his weaknesses from his rookie Battle of the Seasons campaign in the offseason. With this intel about Preston, does Knight play the “bring us to the final because you will beat us there” card? Knight is always (commendably) looking for an advantage. Perhaps keeping Preston’s running acumen a secret is the strategic direction they take.

“Preston recalls, ‘Knight and I have always had a very messy relationship. If Knight’s opening his mouth, he’s saying something offensive. I don’t know how we’re going to get along.’”

Yeah, the volatility of these two is based on both their respective quick-tempered and stubborn personalities and on the glaring differences between their respective personalities. As long as Knight can become Preston’s biggest cheerleader and support and not be a continual demeanor, they could find some success this season.

Best-Case Scenario: Per Knight’s pre-interview commentary, Knight and Preston, in professing weakness as a reason to carry them there, persuade other teams to bring them to the end. In the finals, Preston unleashes his running ability in a mostly endurance based event, and they somehow find a way to win.

Worst-Case Scenario: Preston loses what confidence and positive karma he accrued on his last day in Turkey and struggles mightily in both an early challenge and elimination.

The Verdict: The odds are admittedly against Preston and Knight from becoming a serious factor this season, but Knight is shrewd and committed to finding a way to win. If he can learn to foster Preston’s talents and help him gain additional confidence, they could last longer than anyone expected. Unfortunately, this season is more stacked than Battle of the Seasons, so the road will be that much tougher. I have a feeling that Rivals 2 may not yet be their time.

Watch the Preston and Knight pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Leroy and Ty

July 7, 2013 David Bloom 2 Comments

This is the thirteenth in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Preston and Knight

LEROY and TY

Where did we last see them? Ty was last seen eliminating Leroy from Battle of the Exes en route to his first The Challenge finals with partner Emily (a third place finish).

The Rivalry: This is one of those rivalries that doesn’t have too much real fuel in their fire. Although Ty eliminated Leroy on Exes and was the punching bag (and provocation) that sent home Leroy’s first partner on Rivals, Adam (ironically, this ended up helping Leroy in the long run by reuniting his most sincere and endearing bromance with Mike), these two have mostly stayed out of each other’s paths.

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“It was bad enough that Ty sent Leroy home on Battle of the Exes, but Leroy had to stir the pot even further by airing his grievances on the internet, calling Ty ‘crazy.’”

Can you believe that Leroy had to air his grievances…on the internet?

“Although Ty and Leroy have the athleticism to perform in challenges, Ty’s temperamental personality could put a wrinkle in their plans. Leroy worries, ‘Ty is good with getting in people’s heads, but it’s definitely a roll of the dice when you’re playing with him. You never know.’”

This is Ty’s M.O. – he is a bit of a dice roll. Sometimes he is a physical beast and sometimes he is a head case who could lose endurance in a matter of seconds or have an “extracurricular nighttime activity” that puts his partner in an uncomfortable place. On Exes with long-term foil Emily (dating back to their Real World: Washington DC days) under a little duress of her own, he managed for once to put it all together and reach a finals. Leroy’s success in this game will be largely dependent on the quality of this dice roll.

“Leroy makes up for Ty’s unpredictability with his quick wit and good looks, winning him points with the girls. Ty reveals, ‘Leroy is very popular with people in the house. He’s going to make everyone laugh, and he’ll make us a lovable team.’”

By all accounts and as exemplified in interviews, on podcasts, and over the course of his Real World season and two subsequent Challenges, it is easy to understand how great a guy Leroy is. If Ty can remain in check, utilize his bond with Emily (and access point to the Paula and Johnny power structure), this team has a shot to make some loud noise (the good kind) in this Challenge.

Best-Case Scenario: After some strong and consistent play in challenges, sound gameplay strategy throughout, and a Ty dice roll that comes up “calm, cool, and collected,” they make the finals and have an opportunity to win.

Worst-Case Scenario: Ty’s behavior reverts to a more abrasive version of himself, becomes a nuisance in the house, and makes he and Leroy an early elimination target.

The Verdict: I am having a little trouble getting a handle on this pairing. Leroy was very impressive as a rookie on Rivals, but went home so early on Battle of the Exes (having Naomi as a teammate may not have helped) that he was unable to build up much The Challenge momentum for this season. Ty is coming off his most successful season on Exes and will benefit from having a solid player again (in Leroy, as Emily had been) to partner with. On one hand, if these two can ever put it all together, they could be physically unbeatable (the strategy part of the game may need some work). It was notable that Ty mentions Dunbar and Tyrie, because of their formidable size, as a potentially dangerous opponent. This may be true, but this self-proclaimed “odd couple” don’t even see themselves as in the contender conversation, so why would Ty? Their best move will be to look right to Johnny and Frank (and Paula and Emily on the women’s side) as points of alignment and let the other pieces fall into place.

Watch the Leroy and Ty pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Jordan and Marlon

July 7, 2013 David Bloom 4 Comments

This is the twelfth in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Leroy and Ty

JORDAN and MARLON

Where did we last see them? Jordan and Marlon were last seen together serving pizza and beer at a pizza slice establishment pioneer (at least for Portland) and weathering Hurricane Nia on Real World: Portland.

The Rivalry: This rivalry of two stubborn, athletic alpha dogs was more about who can jump higher than about jumping down each others throats. Jordan’s troubles with Nia (can you blame him?) did manifest themselves in some borderline offensive and racially charged behaviors and Marlon was rightfully none too pleased.

Rivalry Meter on a scale of 1-10 (where 1 is a Leroy and Mike from Rivals I “Rivalry? They’re actually really good friends” rivalry and 10 is a Kenny and Wes from Rivals I “they have hated each other for years” RIVALRY) – 2, best Rivals I comparison: Leroy and Mikey – Although Jordan and Marlon did not have the bond that Leroy and Mike shared, they did get along and are coming directly off their Real World season without other Challenge competitors having the benefit of having seen their season (a potential advantage).

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“Rookies can be sacrificial lambs in this game, but Marlon and Jordan are hoping to buck the trend.”

With Battle of the Seasons as the most glaring exception to this rule, this is a The Challenge truism, but…

“Former Big 12 linebacker Marlon is no stranger to intense competition, and despite being born with only one hand, Jordan has excelled in sports his entire life, from rugby to wrestling to gymnastics.”

…Marlon and Jordan are at a level of athleticism where a long run could be in play if they are able to win some challenges. Despite some of Jordan’s provocative social behavior in Portland and an apparent desire to always have the last word and to be correct, I think it derives from some deep-seeded insecurities that he will be better able to modulate in such an intensive competition experience where this desire to “always be the winner” is inherent to success.

“Marlon explains, ‘Some of the people that don’t know Jordan are going to underestimate him a lot. But they don’t realize that him not having two hands has actually made him that much better of a person and that much more of a competitor.’”

Marlon’s analysis is right on. Jordan will be underestimated (especially initially) and this could be a major advantage for these two rookies. Jordan seems to be genuinely excellent at every athletic activity he tries despite any hand challenges he may come across. It will be in the best interest of other teams to see Jordan and Marlon as a real threat as soon as possible.

“Know-it-all Jordan gets under everyone’s skin while getting under the covers with two veteran girls, while Marlon explores his sexuality by playing both sides of the fence, hooking up with a guy and a girl.”

I anticipate this to be more clever word play than actual truth about “getting under everyone’s skin,” but the “getting under the covers with two veteran girls” part is most intriguing (Was that a kiss with Sarah that we saw in the trailer?). Marlon’s sexual exploration (and his commendable and straightforward approach to explaining it) will be another positive subplot to watch out for. Although I enjoyed both of these guys on The Real World, their talents were always really meant for the competition of the The Challenge. The rivals format (partners fighting for one another) of this, their first rodeo, could be most conducive to success.

Best-Case Scenario: They win some timely challenges and crucial eliminations against power-playing opponents to last until the finals. Once there, anything is in play for this rookie tandem.

Worst-Case Scenario: They have to go against tough competition in an early elimination (several teams fit this description) and are sent home early.

The Verdict: I am buying Jordan and Marlon stock for Rivals 2. I think these two have a legitimate shot of being a serious (and surprise) force in this competition this season.

Watch the Jordan and Marlon pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

CT and Wes

Dunbar and Tyrie

Johnny and Frank

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Johnny and Frank

July 6, 2013 David Bloom 3 Comments

This is the eleventh in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Jordan and Marlon

JOHNNY and FRANK

Where did we last see them? Both are coming off of wins. Johnny and Camila won Battle Exes and Johnny won the first Rivals before that. Frank, as a member of Team San Diego, won Battle of the Seasons last season.

The Rivalry: Yes, their “rivalry” was fabricated between twitter barbs, but Frank’s all out assault on veterans on Battle of the Seasons was an effort to break down the game dynamic that Johnny Bananas had been central in creating on past seasons. Their current hold on power (Frank is riding the Battle of Seasons high, Johnny Bananas has been running this show for years) is in conflict and this makes the pair very intriguing.

Rivalry Meter on a scale of 1-10 (where 1 is a Leroy and Mike from Rivals I “Rivalry? They’re actually really good friends” rivalry and 10 is a Kenny and Wes from Rivals I “they have hated each other for years” RIVALRY) – 3 (if only they had been on a Challenge together – this number would be much higher), best Rivals I comparison: no comparison having never been on a show together before

Highlights (with these two, we must address the bio in its entirety) and Commentary from MTV bio:

“The stage is set for a clash of the egos as two of the most notorious personalities in Challenge history are thrust together.”

So, I wouldn’t call Frank one of the “most notorious personalities in Challenge history” just yet, but he seems to be on that road and another ruthless showing on Rivals 2 will put him in the conversation. The clash of egos is real and Frank especially may struggle with sharing “sheriff in town” duties.

“Although they had never met in person prior to their arrival in Thailand, Johnny and Frank’s rivalry grew out of a heated exchange on Twitter.”

I love how they are one of the more legitimate rivalries on this season and it originated from a “heated exchange on twitter.”

“Irked by the ‘Rookie Revolution’ that propelled Frank’s team to victory on Battle of the Seasons, veteran Johnny downplayed Frank’s win, claiming he ‘didn’t scout Junior Varsity’ when a fan asked his opinion of the game’s new generation.”

This is all great stuff and Johnny has a legitimate point here. There was a substantial power vacuum (particularly among the men) on Battle of the Seasons that does take something away from Frank’s team win. If he had to go against Johnny, CT, Kenny, Derrick, or Evan would he have been able to be so successful? Not likely.

“Never one to let an insult slide by, Frank fired back at 30 year-old Bananas, snarking, ‘Maybe you should focus on a real job, old man!’”

Snarking, yes, but Frank knows where to hit where it could hurt. This does bring up the potential that Johnny’s Challenge reign will have an end point sometime soon (although I can see Bananas pulling a Mark Long sometime down the line), but that time is not now and until he is beaten, The Challenge king remains on his thrown.

“While these two may need to earn each other’s respect, four-time champion Johnny already recognizes their innate similarities, admitting, ‘One of the things that scares me the most about Frank is he reminds me a lot of myself.’”

It is a pleasure to witness how much Johnny gets it. Frank’s work on Battle of the Seasons was impressive and his close to complete control of his team and the season at large was frankly Bananas-esque. Frank is not anywhere in Johnny’s league at this point, but as Johnny recognizes, he drives in the same The Challenge strategic lane and could get close someday. This showing of respect is part of the reason why Johnny is where he is in The Challenge hierarchy.

“Johnny and Frank have the chops to emerge as a powerhouse pair, but will their massive egos prove to be their downfall?”

This is the question in play and it is really only directed at Frank. Frank struggles (and by struggle I mean struggle) when at all threatened and Johnny must work to do a little extra ego stroking and some genuine strategic collaboration to keep Frank at his best.

Best-Case Scenario: They dominate challenges, strategic and social gameplay, and ride their success and long distance endurance to a win in the finals.

Worst-Case Scenario: Either Frank has a tantrum that Johnny cannot find a way to help him recover from (as he expertly did with Camila on Exes) or Frank ostracizes himself from Johnny’s allies to a point of no return. Both of these scenarios (particularly the second) are highly unlikely.

The Verdict: After one season off, the return of Johnny Bananas is most welcome. As probably the central figure in the modern The Challenge ascension to fifth major professional sport status, he makes everything that much more fun to watch. Whether you like him or not (many people feel the latter), Frank was a fantastic player on Battle of the Seasons and provides incredible “extracurricular nighttime activity” on a regular basis. This pairing is exactly what the audience is looking for and I fully expected Johnny and Frank to deliver compelling drama and excellent play.

Watch the Johnny and Frank pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

CT and Wes

Dunbar and Tyrie

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica

"The Challenge", Blog Posts, Television

THE CHALLENGE: RIVALS 2 Team Previews – Dunbar and Tyrie

July 6, 2013 David Bloom 4 Comments

This is the tenth in a series of “The Challenge: Rivals 2″ team previews that will lead into the first power rankings of the season. Next up: Johnny and Frank

DUNBAR and TYRIE

Where did we last see them? Both were last seen battling Exes (again, stretching the term) with Dunbar having a more successful run. Tyrie had some memorable “extracurricular nighttime activity” with Jasmine 1.0 (the wine glass tossing version).

The Rivalry: The opposite of CT and Wes, this is a literal non-rivalry and a complete surprise to Dunbar (watch his pre-interview – it seems like he was barely aware of Tyrie’s presence, let alone longstanding grudge).

Rivalry Meter on a scale of 1-10 (where 1 is a Leroy and Mike from Rivals I “Rivalry? They’re actually really good friends” rivalry and 10 is a Kenny and Wes from Rivals I “they have hated each other for years” RIVALRY) – 2 (although not because they are close, but because they literally have nothing to do with each other. Dunbar in the pre-interview: “I didn’t even know his last name!”), best Rivals I comparison: there is really no comparison – they are an entity all on their own

Highlights and Commentary from MTV bio:

“Imagine not even knowing why your rival had it in for you. That’s the situation Dunbar walked into when he arrived in Thailand.”

Imagine creating a construct for a television show teaming up rivals and then choosing people who have literally nothing to do with one another. That’s the situation the viewer will arrive in on Wednesday night.

“However, his partner Tyrie has a longer memory when it comes to the Challenge, explaining, ‘Our relationship goes back to The Island where Dunbar basically got cakewalked to a power position. Seeing him be successful right off the bat without necessarily having to earn anything, it rubbed me the wrong way.’”

Ok, let’s refresh. This rivalry doesn’t even exist, but, whatever kernel of tension that may exist dates back to The Island when Tyrie was jealous because Dunbar was a rookie and more successful than him? Really? I like Dunbar and he has certainly had his share of memorable The Challenge moments and successes and Tyrie, despite a mostly unsuccessful Challenge career, is worthy of another shot, but it takes away from the game to have some rivals be actual rivals juxtaposed with pairings like Dunbar and Tyrie.

“Can these two channel their competitive fire? Or is this time bomb doomed to detonate?”

I wouldn’t exactly call it a time bomb, but the point is taken. Dunbar and Tyrie will not be expected to win anything, but this could play to their advantage and perhaps they will have more in common than they knew to explore before on other Challenges.

Best-Case Scenario: An early clutch win in an elimination against a powerhouse gives them some momentum to have a chance to make the finals.

Worst-Case Scenario: With few viable teams to align with, they find themselves thrown in to an early elimination and lose.

The Verdict: I have now watched their pre-interview video several times and each time I do a better job convincing myself that this odd couple could be a potential dark horse. Their is something so bizarre about their pairing that just might work. I would not be surprised if they are out early (nor would Dunbar), but a successful run is not out of the question. They are both athletic, but as Dunbar points out, maybe not in the right ways for the challenges. In the interest of an unexpected underdog, I am rooting for Dunbar and Tyrie to surprise us all.

Watch the Dunbar and Tyrie pre-interviews here

Men Team Previews:

CT and Wes

Women Team Previews:

Anastasia and Jessica