What we do know is that all the "DNF in '05" predictions were mistyped, so what those people actually meant was that he'd be a "DNS in '06." Which, assuming he does retire, will in some small contrived way be correct.
Did anyone pick the Thunder God for green? I can't see him losing it tomorrow, he'd have to finish, what, 3 or more places behind O'Grady? I can't even think of a half decent sprint threat outside of the big three, everyone else is out.
How about anyone for Rasmussen?
I bet no one picked Popo for White, as in a similar vein probably no one would have thought Disco'd get two stage wins by two Men Who Aren't Lance. No precedent, really.
But I think a lot of people picked the podium, and in order. No surprises there, really, unless you were genuinely expecting a lot to change this year.