The Storylines
The Shield defeated Team Hell No in one of the best tag matches I have seen in about a decade. The pacing of the match never slowed down, as the match went about 20 minutes. I love the action in the ring. The hot tag to Bryan was fantastic because it was able to showcase what his characteristics are changing towards. He is like a dynamite, waiting to explode. When he exploded, he used kick after kick, dropkick to the corner, and really did an incredible job at showcasing why he is such an amazing performer. Kane and Reigns were used for their brute strength, specifically to give Rollins and Bryan a break. I love the length of this match, the near pinfalls, and the ending. I find it incredible to watch Kane perform at a high level every single week, but this night told me that Daniel Bryan needs to be in the World Heavyweight or WWE Championship picture sooner rather than later. What an incredible match this was.
Grade: A
Randy Orton and Sheamus defeated Team Rhodes Scholars. When I saw this match advertised, my first thought was a squash match for the faces. Much to my surprise, it was actually a match that was really good as well. Randy Orton and Sheamus worked over Rhodes until Sandow was able to get a few cheap shots in. As the match progressed, Orton and Sheamus hit their flurry of moves. Is there a more fitting move than Sheamus' chops to the chest of his opponent? I love seeing this each week and helps the crowd get behind the big Irishman. After the faces picked up the win, it was solidified in my mind that they are very likely the next pair to try and defeat The Shield. Although they faced each other, in theory, at Wrestlemania, it looks like WWE wants to go in this direction. I thought Sheamus and Sandow could have a feud, but they NEED legit top faces to square off against Rollins and Reigns. There is no way the Tag Team Championships are not defended each month at the Pay Per View. They have to be. This is the first time in a LONG time that I can say that and be happy about it.
Grade: B
