Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 2: Four more chefs bite the dust

After big names squeaked by in the first episode of the season, Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 2 has everyone wondering what unpredictable outcome could be in the future. Is there an upset waiting in the wings?

According to Food Network, Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 2, “The Randomizer’s Revenge” features the following:

"Guy Fieri continues the first-round battles with four more one-on-one sudden death battles. Four chefs will conquer their opponent and the randomizer to move on to the Super 16, while four chefs will be eliminated and head home."

While no one can predict the randomizer’s combinations, the reality is that the dreaded requirements are meant to put the chefs in a panic. Far more difficult than a Chopped Box, it is not just about the ingredients, it is about the thoughtfulness of the dish.

So far, the ingredients and combinations haven’t been too outrageous. Although the 25-minute cooking time might have been cruel, the ingredients themselves allow for some culinary creativity.

Looking at the judging, the use of the kitchen equipment is just as important as highlighting the cooking style. While each chef has to check the box, how they check the box is key. There can be no throw aways in this Food Network competition.

While there are many celebrated chefs looking to battle for supremacy, it is interesting that Alex Guarnaschelli took to the judging table, not the kitchen. Even though she was triumphant in Alex vs. America, her keen eye and culinary competition experience seemed to make her a difficult judge to please.

Although the first couple of battles might have had a numerical upset, it might not have been a big shock. Experience coupled with playing the game is what makes this competition difficult to manage. Only a few will be able to do that time and again. With this round, anything could happen, thanks to that randomizer.

Tournament of Champions Season 3 episode 2 airs on Food Network Sunday at 8 p.m. and can be streamed on Discovery+.