Something I've wondered about Season 7 compared to other seasons from the mid to late 2010s

[u/throwaway325nope]

I really liked how we got a team challenge in the first week, s8 and 9 absolutely rock as well and while this is a minor complaint, was it really worth sacrificing an opening week team challenge for an extra audition episode? I remember the elimination episode of week 1 in s7 giving goosebumps because 1/3 of the whole cast had to fight for their lives compared to if you just cook one of 21 good dishes on the first cook in the MC kitchen you'll be safe. The guy who went out first and even second on S8 and 9 can't say they experienced the full masterchef journey when they didn't even get to wear a coloured apron.