Shock at last week's elimination of Michael Johns, the ascot-wearing Aussie rocker who'd never landed in the bottom three before.

Oh, Michael, why didn't you listen to the judges and choose a bluesier song than "Dream On"? The dream is over now.

The awe is for the seven remaining contestants, a talented bunch who could make this the toughest competition in "Idol" history. Who seems like a winner heading into tonight's episode? Who's lagging behind? Here's a reverse-order ranking. 

7. Syesha Mercado. 
6. Kristy Lee Cook.
5. Brooke White.
4. Jason Castro.
3. Carly Smithson.
2. David Cook.
1. David Archuleta. // Freep.com