5 Facts about American Idol 11

From auditions to finals, it's been a rollercoaster ride for the contestants and viewers alike. Here are 5 factoids to spice up the tension-filled days before the big night.

1.)    Old "Dawg" is still barkin'

Randy Jackson has been sitting on the judges' table since Season 1. He has seen talents come and go, and many stars have received his praises and criticisms. With Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell gone, leaving him as the sole original judge, is this the last time that we'll be seeing Randy?

2.)    The Boys are on a roll

Rocker David Cook took home the crown in Season 7. Then Kris Allen, Lee DeWyze and Scotty McCreery followed suit. Will Philip Phillips continue the streak, or will Jessica Sanchez turn the tables this time?

3.)    "Save" the best for last

This is the first time that a contestant "saved" by the judges will be in the finals. Introduced in Season 8, the "Judge's Save" was given to Jessica Sanchez during the Top 7 week. The whole world awaits if this young talent can turn this second chance into "first place".

4.)    Battle of the sexes

Statistics time! The boys have a slight lead in terms of grand winners, with the boys having 6 champions against the girls' 4. As for the top two finalists, the boys also have a lead, with 12 finalists versus 8. The two sexes have gone head to head in the finals 6 times, splitting the winners with 3 each. With the impending Philip-Jessica duel, whose flag will be raised this time?

5.)    Young? What young?

Scotty McCreery was only 17 when he won last year, making him the youngest champion in the history of the competition. Well, until now. If Jessica Sanchez, 16 years old, takes home the crown, she will also rewrite the history books. Is America ready to welcome someone so young yet so talented? 

Source: http://au.ibtimes.com