American Idol returned to the Beatles song-book for the second consecutive week on Tuesday (March 18) because the show’s producers thought last weeks Beatles theme was so successful. However, only 17 year old David Archuleta received raves from all judges including surly Simon Cowell describing his performance of "Long and Winding Road" as “amazing.” Oddsmakers at online sports wagering giant Bodoglife.com also took note by continuing to keep the Murray, Utah native at the top of the group with 11/8 betting odds. Archuleta’s status as the front-runner took a serious hit last week when he forgot some lyrics and struggled through his song. Today, all seems forgiven.
Although Simon Cowell wasn’t impressed with a majority of the performances, judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul were very impressed with a few of the nights performers.
The nearest challenger to Archuleta appears to be San Diego resident and Dublin, Ireland native Carly Smithson who impressed the audience with Blackbird. Current betting odds show Smithson with a 15/4 odds chance of winning this seventh season of American Idol.
Hot on Smithson’s heels with a 4/1 odds chance of winning the contest is David Cook. Cook really had the audience going with an amped up version of "Day Tripper". The audience did not agree at all with Cowell’s review who drew hisses and boos after saying, “I don’t think it was as good as you think it was.” Regardless of what Cowell thinks, Paula Abdul told Cook he was ready to sell records.
Brooke White, who was brilliant a week ago wasn’t impressive in her rendition of "Here Comes the Sun." Cowell said it was “terrible.” Randy thought her performance was “awkward.” Tagged with a 5/1 chance of winning the contest, don’t look for White to be sent home any time soon.
The odds chances drop off significantly after the top four already discussed. Jason Castro, with a 13/1 odds chance to win seems to be a favorite with teeny boppers as is Michael Johns who oddsmakers have at 14/1.
With the elimination show looming, any of the five remaining contestants could get the boot tonight. The contestant with the least favorable odds at 70/1 odds to win is Kristy Lee Cook. This Texas cowgirl has been in the bottom two the past two weeks.
Others joining what oddsmakers consider the also-ran list are Ramiele Malubay (24/1) Amanda Overmyer (30/1), Chikezie Eze (40/1) and Syesha Mercado (50/1).
Here at Point-Spreads.com we were spot-on calling for the departure of David Hernandez last week. Tonight it’s a little more difficult to call but we are going to go against the oddsmakers and call for Amanda Overmyer to be eliminated. Her act is tired and don’t think voters will stick with her much longer if at all.
