American Idol Top 13 Rankings

Sometime in the days ahead, I will have a more detailed rundown of this week's Idol action, but I have to say, this season is looking strong.

As the first show of the "Finals", I have to say that the entire crop, pound for pound, could be stronger than any season. It is very possible that tonight, as far as vocals were concerned, was the most impressive performance round of American Idol history. Let's hope it is a sign of things to come.

Anyway, here are my grades and rankings:

13. Shannon Magrane B-
12. Heejun Han B-
11. Elise Testone B
10. DeAndre Brackensick B
9. Colton Dixon B
8. Phillip Phillips B
7. Skylar Laine B
6. Jeremy Rosado B
5. Jermaine Jones B+
4. Hollie Cavanagh B+
3. Erika Van Pelt A-
2. Joshua Ledet A-
1. Jessica Sanchez A

Now, the producers have seen fit to change the Idol rules in a particular way for the first time ever. We are told that the lowest vote getter for both the guys and girls will be announced and the three judges will decide who goes home. There was no word on whether there would be "sing for your life performances", but I bet there will be.

According to what seemed to be said on the broadcast, only one person is going home this week, so that would mean there will be a Top 12 next week I imagine. That is totally fine with me, but either the season is going to run a week longer or there is going to be one built in double elimination week.

My hunch is that those in danger will be (unfortunately from a talent perspective) Elise Testone and Jeremy Rosado.

The judges will deliberate and send home Jeremy, trying to keep as many girls alive early on as possible. J-Lo will cry major tears, be they legit or in a futile attempt to win an Emmy.