Opening Segment: 
Randy Orton starts off Smackdown talking about Survivor Series and his team. He states that he will beat each of his opponents one by one. Barrett comes out and interrupts Orton. He says he is a natural leader. He talks about beating Orton and showing he is ready to be World Champion. Christian comes out in a neck brace, as they attack Orton. Sheamus makes the save. We get Theodore Long to announce Sheamus vs. Christian and Orton vs. Barrett for tonight.
What I Liked:
The show immediately establishes the main events for the night, as well as building feuds within feuds. All four of these guys are interchangeable in feuds, as well as being the focal points of Smackdown. Interesting they give the captain status to Barrett, as I feel they have put more stock into Cody Rhodes the past two months. I loved how the night started, as it felt like they really want to make this SS match important.
What I Disliked:
Barrett, in my mind, is a future star. I just do not understand why he immediately has leaped Rhodes. Both are great, but Barrett should try and feud with someone on his own, or build him up. Mark Henry and Big Show do not need the opening segment, so it was smart they put there “work horses” out first. Well done.
Grade: B+
Sheamus vs. Christian:
What I Liked:
We get another solid match between these two, which mixed speed and strength together. Sheamus continues to roll, and we get the veteran to take a back seat again in Christian. Sheamus is complete, is talented in every way, and this match shows it. The spot with Christian caught and thrown to the barricade looked great on TV.
What I Disliked:
Why not give Christian the victory here? This gives him something to brag about, and gives a confidence boost to the heel team for Survivor Series. He can benefit more from a victory, especially if one of his teammates helped him grab a cheap win. It shows team unity, as well as the desire to overcome. Christian needed the win, and it would not harm Sheamus’ continued build.
Grade: B+
