‘The Bachelor’ race: Did Luke Pell benefit most from hometown dates?

Prior to last week’s new episode of “The Bachelorette,” we specifically mentioned that Luke Pell was potentially being set up the best for the hometown dates coming up. Just think for a minute about circumstances: This is a guy with a background that is perfect for this franchise, beginning with him being a small-time guy from Texas who served the country and loves animals. Also, he’s got the look, the personality, and he made it really far into the competition.

Now that we’ve seen his full hometown date, complete with declaration of his feelings and his giant family, we’re pretty darn convinced the guy has it in the bag. Maybe ABC disagrees or he finds someone else that he wants to be with, but at the moment, how can you argue that anyone other than Luke is the top contender? Viewers like him, he’s got the edit, and the ratings over the years suggest that he will be embraced.

As for when Luke will get his next chance to make a case to be the lead, it’ll be coming your way Tuesday during the “Men Tell All” special provided that he is eliminated at some point over the overnight dates. Otherwise, he’ll have to wait for the “After the Final Rose” special airing on August 1. We just don’t see many configurations where Luke makes it that far given the seeds that have been planted.

1. JoJo Fletcher is clearly digging Jordan Rodgers more than any other guy.

2. JoJo is also into Robby Hayes, even with some of the recent drama and rumors.

3. She’s already suggested that she is further behind with Luke, and may not have gotten an indication as to his feelings for her until the last minute.

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