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The American Idol Top 9 performances offered up no clear answer as to who is going home next. Several of the favorite contestants from previous weeks struggled with the country theme, while some of the less popular contestants gave the better performances of the night. In general though the performances were safe and boring, and Simon Cowell was right on target when he said that the audience at home deserved better.

Will viewers vote based on their overall favorites or based on the country performances? The answer to that question will likely decide who is eliminated. Even though Bucky Covington, Kellie Pickler, and Ace Young might have been popular choices for elimination before tonight, they all shined during the country performances. Mandisa Hundley, Taylor Hicks, and Katharine McPhee all struggled with country, so it will be up to their fan bases to keep them in it. Chris Daughtry and Paris Bennett are the only two that are likely guaranteed safe. Our prediction is that Mandisa Hundley, Elliott Yamin, and Katharine McPhee will be the bottom three, and Mandisa Hundley will be going home.