After seeing Johnston at Hastings (i hosted them), I really think they're gonna bring it to the competition. A group with vocals like that can really "sing their way to victory" to quote a previous comment somebody made. I could also see Synergy snagging a 2ru in this comp. It'll be a big showdown between Ankeny and Johnston for GC. Good luck to all groups!
So these are my predictions, I think that considering how close Johnston and Ankeny were at Waukee this year it could go either way for GC. However I think that Ankeny is most likely super fired-up and ready to take Johnston on! That being said I also think Johnston's use of a themed show, which is a new endeavor for them, really sets the bar high. I also think that one of Ankeny's weaker points is in the band which is good but not the best its ever been. I would say that overall Johnston's band is stronger than Ankeny's. I would say Ankeny's choreography is more energetic and cleaner than Johnston, however Johnston has more style on an individual performer basis (at the cost of cleanliness). I also think Ankeny has more consistently strong vocal sound and diction through out their show (Johnston's ballad is pretty great tho). I also think that Ankeny has a better male sound in their show. All of these things considered I think that Ankeny will edge out Johnston but it will be very close!
Thanks for reading, let me know your opinions!
(P.S. Please don't be too harsh on me because I am just a college student and not a professional)
Edit #1: Structure
Edit #2: I've yet to see Synergy however looking at past years I could see them snagging 2RU
I think you make a lot of good points here. Of course, I want Inno to sweep, but I agree that Ankeny is quite strong this year. It should be an exciting matchup!