I think the judging is on par. I/K had a really fantastic opening step sequence, and really sold the program at the beginning. It fizzled out somewhat towards the end, but their elements were for the most part well done. It's early in the season for them, but I think they can develop this program so much more. I love how they hit the beat so well in the Hip Hip Chin Chin section.
I adore Weaver and Poje, and I think this SD is a winner, but clearly, they had errors today. I hope Andrew can work on those twizzles! I have to say, I love this program for them.
The problem with the Shibutanis is that you can turn off the music, replace it and the dance will look the same. You'd never know it's supposed to be Latin. Particularly in the second half of the program. That circular step sequence? No relation to the music at all. They were impressive technically last year, but this year, they seem slow and not that special in the technique.
And the judge thing is just chuckie's usual MO whenever an American doesn't win. It's always a Russian/European/Canadian conspiracy.
Normally teams take weeks or even months to change the dynamic of the program like that. Bravo to them and Igor 
