Myself, I'm finding it massively difficult to choose a winner even though we've seen loads of dancing from everyone now.

However, the more I thought about it, the more convinced I am that in a combination of public vote, skill and personality, Jade and Ian will emerge victorious.

They're a skill level above the popular Chris, Ricky G, Natalie and Tuffers - they're more likeable than Zoe or Laila - and in a straight fight, I think they'd show more spark than Ali or Ricky W. (Don't even ask me about Craig).

I realise they were in the dance-off this week but like Rachel and Vincent, I doubt it'll happen again for a while. And anyway, which of you doesn't want to see Ian's showdance for them?!

Right, I rest my case and the floor is open for your own arguments. Who do you think will win and why?

(NB: that is who you think will win and why, NOT why you think I'm wrong. I very well could be, but that is not the point of this thread.)

I think it will be Ali and Brian, because:

1. As things stand she and Ricky W are the only ones I think wouldn't be voted out unless they're against each other, and then it's 50/50 who'll be top on the night.
2. I think Ali is more likeable than Ricky (if they both get through)
3. I don't think anyone who is likely to get through on public vote is going to be a strong enough character to challenge.

I think it could come down to a final between Ricky W, Ali and Jade and I have no idea how the public would vote in that particular scenario. I suppose a lot would depend on the showdance!

Ricky W. easily. Even though he isn't mine or this forum's favourite, he is bringing in his fans from Hollyoaks and attracting the attention of loads of women.

Another one for Ali & Brian, although I think either of the two Rickys are a good bet as well.

I think Ricky W will turn up in a few dance offs towards the end of the series, knocking out Zoe and Natalie. I also think he will be in a DO with Ali near the quarter final depending on what happens on the night as to who goes.
I think Jade will continue to do well, she seems equally strong in Latin and Ballroom. I'm wondering about Chris for the final, he's very well liked, not a 'dance disaster' and has a great relationship with Ola.

Therefore I think

3rd place: Ricky W/Ali (depending on who survives their DO
2nd place: Chris
1st place: Jade

Looking at this i'm wondering if Chris for 2nd is more wishful thinking

Erin's choreography is always spot on, so Ricky G cannot be ruled out, but I too think Ali and Brian are looking most likely to win.

I'd like to say Ricky W but after this week's X-Factor results who knows. Failing him I think it will be someone who the public perceive as having gone through a journey and both Ricky G and Chris would fit nicely into that niche.

If you're right and it is between Ali and RickyW, i hope Ali wins. I know it's stupid but I feel quite strongly that one of the new pros shouldn't win on their first series, i'd just about be ok with Brian winning but would much prefer one of the seasoned pros to win

I do think Ricky Whittle and Ali Bastian are certainties to reach the final. As far as the other finalist goes, I'm not so sure. In my opinion, Ricky Whittle is a natural. I think we will see a couple of amazing performances from him in a couple of weeks and that will end all speculation. The only argument then will be..who's going to be runner-up.

But, I could be completely wrong.

It is between the three amigos - Tuffers, Chris and Ricky G. They have the most public support

Plus Ricky G is the classic j word story, Chris is sweet and can dance. Tuffers is fun and entertaining

The best technicain never wins strictly - unless you count JH - you now have to be a complete package- can dance, have a personality and most importantly be entertaining

And you need a siezable fanbase

Ricky W or Ali for me

I think it will be Ali an Brian.

I think Ricky Whittle will win. I'm basing this on Tom winning last year. His only danger is ending up in the bottom 2 with Ali, when the judges would save Ali, but my guess is the public will get him to the final. Who else is in the final from the others left is the really interesting question.

I've got a sneaky feeling it's not going to be one of the obvious ones this year.............

Ricky W. to win with Ali runner up & either Tuffers or Zoe in third place.

Of course I want Ricky to win with a passion but don't dislike any of the other challengers - Ali is sweetness personified but I'll be interested to see how she copes with the pressure as it intensifies. Is she vulnerable or is she a toughie who hides it well! One of the dance teachers on the BBC forum said she could see Ali shaking like a leaf throughout the AS.

Ricky W or Ali. One or both will be in the final two.

Then it's tricky. At the moment I'd say Ali but men do very well in SCD even though Ricky has been cast as "the boring one".

I'd say Brian is more popular than Natalie so...Ali to win.

Until you remember the rag-doll dance for Colin Jackson.

Anway, I would suggest Ricky W, with Ali coming up second. As far as entertainment - Chris is there, Tuffers as an ouside chance and Ricky G as your "£1 on a 500-1 punt"

I'd love Zoe and James to win, but I really think that Ali and Brian will.

Not always Smokey!

Remember that disastrous show dance with Colin!

I desperately want it to be Jade and Ian and I'll do everything within my power to make it happen (sod the phone bill) but I have a feeling that Ali and Brian will be strong contenders.

I think Ricky W, Zoe and Ali will make the final with Ricky winning (although i would like Zoe to).

I don't find Jade likeable so don't think she will make it and Ricky G could be an outside bet for the final.

I think Ali & Brian. The best dancers (at the moment) are Ali, Ricky W, Zoe Lucker and Jade (Laila would be on this list if it wasn't for her latin). Zoe and Jade have already been in dance-offs so logically they probably won't get enough votes later on it the competition, and I can see Ali getting more votes than Ricky....I think people will fall in love with her partnership with Brian.

I don't think we should rule out the improvers yet though, or anyone really for that matter. Anything can happen.

I think Ali and Brian will be the winners. I dont mind if they are but would LOVE to see Chris and Ola or Ricky and Erin lift the glitterball that would put a big smile on my face come December.......but if they are ever in the dance off against Jade Zoe or Ricky W they are going home.

Are people EVER going to forgive her for that !? This was series 3....and I'm sure she's learnt from that mistake ! Erin is amazing and 9/10 gets it right imo.

Forgiveness not necessary, but you must admit it was pretty unforgettable!