WWE Smackdown Hits

Chris Jericho and Edge vs. C.M. Punk and Jeff Hardy: John Morrison was on his way to the main event picture, with or without Edge's injury. Any combination of a match involving the four men in the tag team main event is usually going to be a good one and this was no exception, especially on an overall lackluster show. The work was solid and the advancement in the Punk vs. Hardy storyline was fantastic.

C.M. Punk's opening promo: Punk's slow heel turn has been the non-wrestling highlight on Smackdown lately. He continues to shine and Punk's work has also brought out the best in Jeff Hardy's promo ability. Both men, who were already top talents, have elevated their games since working with each other.

Dolph Ziggler vs. R-Truth: A short, but solid bout that was a nice way for Ziggler to continue his roll after a victory at The Bash. Truth played his role here nicely and ZIggler looked really good. I am also enjoying the interaction with Maria and ZIggler as well. Maria needs something to do and the two could benefit from being together on camera.

WWE Smackdown Misses

Kane vs. Rey Mysterio: I don't want to bust balls and point out the obvious, but they call it "the obvious" for a reason. Mysterio and Jericho have been busting their ass to put the Intercontinental Championship back on the map. Kane should not have won this match and frankly, if they wanted Kane to win a match on the show, they should not have booked him against Rey.

Finlay vs. Ricky Ortiz: Ortiz is definitely a better heel than he is a face, but damn, the guy just does not do anything for me. He has some tools, but they just do not translate into anything entertaining on screen. Finlay working with Ortiz behind the scenes on a number of things will help him immensely and perhaps will turn around Ricky's career.

Cryme Tyme defeats The Hart Dynasty: Wow. The Hart Dynasty makes their first appearance (as regulars) on one of the main shows, and they lose. I cannot say I understand the logic behind that one at all. I mean, if they plan to start a program between the four with the Harts coming out on top at the end, I guess this loss.... well, it still doesn't make much sense. I'm worried about what's going on with the Harts.

Maria and Melina vs. Michelle McCool and Layla: I feel like I run down the women's division more often than I do Vladimir Kozlov. This division is just bad right now and frankly, it is going to get worse with Gail Kim going to Raw. I suggested sometime ago that the women who work should be on one show with one belt, and the other women should be valets or backstage interviewers on the other shows. Sounds simple enough to me. There is so much talent there; focus on it WWE.

Overall show: The show was bookended with good segments, but the middle was bad, especially in the ring, where Smackdown has developed their identity and calling card. I'm actually concerned about Edge's injury because I'm worried that Vince will panic and put someone on the show that will water down the product. We'll see, but I cannot say I'm not at least considering the worst.

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