Eight guys enter, six guys leave

So I had to watch last night's House (with an interesting Dave Matthews guest spot -- probably the best one-shot episode of the show in a while) before I could get the energy to get through Idol.

But it was guys night, which means at least one enjoyable train wreck. Last chance for these goofs to make it to the finals.

Blake is one of the only contestants picking really great, pop songs and I think it's helping him despite the fact he's not the greatest singer in the competion. Though he seemed to lack the energy the song needed, he's certainly the most deserving of the guys to make it to the next round.

I've been behind Sanjaya for the past weeks despite performances that have been considered sub-par. He finally picked a song from the last decade, but he certainly doesn't have the energy that a Mayer tune like that needs. If he does stick around for another week (I think he will), he needs to sing out -- he doesn't belt out the songs like he needs to. Also, his decision to pick a modern song may hurt him with the older crowd of voters that I think were keeping him around.

With the third straight recent (sort of) song (and third straight rock song) Sundance kept up the good vibe of the show this week. It wasn't awesome, but it had energy that he hasn't shown in a while.

Chris Richardson's Keith UR&Ban tune was a lame choice. He might be near the top of the pile for the guys vocally, but I don't think he's got it.

The best voice on the guys' side? Jared. I'd put some money down on him making it to the end (not that he'll beat the girls). Corny song this week, though, and, as Simon said, not a big wow.

Brandon dropped off over the past few weeks. This week -- not especially impressive either. Could see him go home.

I'll continue to dislike Phil, especially after this week. Awful, awful singer, in my opinion. Yech. And Meatloaf Jr., Chris Sligh, while a good singer, keeps picking boring -- so very boring -- songs.

Thumbs up: No one, really.
OK: Blake, Sundance, Chris Richardson, Jared, Chris Sligh
Thumbs down: Phil, Brandon, Sanjaya

Should go home: Sanjaya, Phil
Will go home: Brandon, Phil