Yo, ok, let's step back and talk about Shokugeki. 
So, due to impressions of the characters throughout the series, before going into the Autumn election I figured I could generally peg who would advance. 
Now, aside from Souma and Hayama I have no fucking clue, literally everyone feels formidable in their own way, even Marui. I just have the idea of Ryo, the ferocious guy with the flame headband, going ham against with his dish only to be overcome by Marui, like a hare and the tortoise kinda thing if that makes sense. 
Seriously, this show is so freaking good.