It's Lauren vs. Scotty in 'Idol's' finale

Three songs for each finalist -- a contestant fave; "Idol" boss Simon Fuller's pick; and the song each finalist would like to record. As always, famous guests will appear, and it's fun to speculate who. How about Bruce Springsteen, pal of mentor Jimmy Iovine and who visited backstage earlier in the season? Or, Aerosmith? That's a lock. Ousted finalist Casey Abrams is reportedly booked to perform with Jack Black.

THE FINALISTS

LAUREN ALAINA, 16, ROSSVILLE, GA. Cheerleader was deemed least likely by most critics to never make it to the final 2, but here . . .she . . . is. Her secret, besides unswerving dedication to country? A sweetness that never cloys, and gentle stage presence. She's likable, plain and simple.

SCOTTY McCREERY, 17, GARNER N.C. Probable winner, and potentially a real (and rare) winner in the post-show CD realm because country does so well for "Idol." Carrie Underwood has sold by far the most albums of any "Idolist" (12.3 million). McCreery has a huge fan base among Southern viewers -- and they watch and vote the most. They won't abandon him.

MY SAY Nothing seems to sour some people more than an "Idol" finish, and this one in particular appears to have brought out the Simon Cowell in everyone. Two country singers in the final? Pia Toscano dumped weeks ago? James Durbin a memory? What is going on?

But step back from the watercooler, take a deep breath and be thankful for what you got: A vastly improved "Idol," better Hollywood round, some memorable performances, and three judges who didn't turn out to be The Three Stooges. The nurturing approach had its downside, most notably a lack of sincerity in a few instances, but for the most part it worked. Jennifer Lopez was the rock of the group, Randy the wise elder and Steven Tyler, the exuberant kid, and together they did find and nurture a solid final 12; blame voters if you don't like the final two.

SEASON GRADE B+