I want to say how much I enjoy this thread each week.

Thanks for starting it Michel, and thanks to everyone who contributed.

Now, At the start of the season, when Phil was getting ready to send the teams off into the world, weren't we told this was going to be unlike any TAR before? I don't recall if this was a voice over, or something we actually saw him saying to the players. Either whay, while We had a few twists thrown in such as 1) The Intersection, and 2) the non pitstop elimination, we've had changes before without the "This TAR is unlike any TAR before notice". Changes Such as Super legs & Changes to non elimination pitstops were changes that didn't merit comment in the opening of prior TARS. Or atleast I don't remember them.

So, I think the warning at the start of the season was really about that THE ENDING was going to be unlike any TAR before.

There have been Alot of angel refrences particularly in regards to LK. Specifically in regards to "I'm a black angel" and putting the Angel around their necks for good luck 2 episodes back. Also, I can think of atleast 2 instances where We've seen them Praying for Strength. I've got to think players pray ALL THE TIME in this game for strength, guidance etc... But we were shown LK praying - not to the best of my recollection other players praying. (I'm not counting "Oh, My God!" Now we have the final episode "Say Your Deepest Prayers Ever".

Then, there have been the MULTIPLE reminders that a womans team has never won before. I think this has been mentioned repeatedly so that folks will have more of an appreciation for what LK has accomplished - despite how unsatisfying the season their win will be.

I think all of this points to LK winning.