I thought that was a pretty cool challenge on last night's Top Chef -- the final five had to cut down huge sides of beef into tomahawk steaks, then cook one. Spike took it easily (he claimed he had butchering in his blood.

But I think his quickfire win was his downfall -- nothing annoys the judges more than when someone gets an advantage and then squanders it. Spike was given first choice of proteins for the final challenge, and he chose frozen scallops for his appetizer, which ended up being a big problem.

A bigger problem was when, at judges' table, Spike blamed the guest judge -- Chicago chef Rick Tramonto, whose restaurant the final challenge took place in -- for having the frozen scallops in the walk-in fridge to begin with. Tom Colicchio had the most priceless look on his face.

To his credit, Spike was totally embarrassed, and once they were in the waiting room, he chastised himself for the outburst.

But it was too late -- he was done for.

So next week begins the finale in Puerto Rico, with a final four of Stephanie, Antonia, Richard and Lisa. So long as they dispense with Lisa pretty quickly, I think I'll be fine with any of those three as the winner.

What say you?