Spoiler Alert: Details regarding the October 6, 2021 episode of 'Survivor 41' are discussed below. When it comes to the game of Survivor, there is no denying the agility, determination, and stamina required to be able to make it far, however, a social game is just as important! Well, when it comes to this season's 18 castaways, now down to 15, that is, it seems as if fans are calling out Shantel 'Shan' Smith, but for all the best reasons.

The Toronto-native is coming in hot this season, so much that she is definitely a top contender in winning Survivor 41. Upon arrival to the island, Shan revealed she considered herself to be a "mafia pastor," and that title is surely coming into play. While this season is quite the taxing one, Shan has been at the top of her game.

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The same cannot be said for everyone, considering Yase has been in trouble since the start of the season. With a lot shifting in the game, and a merge around the corner, it's clear that playing a social game is what's keeping players going right now, and just might be the reason Shan wins it all!

Fans Think Shan Can Win 'Survivor'

When Survivor 41 first began, it was clear that there would be a few stand-out stars from the get-go. Xander, a Yase tribe member has certainly been catching the eyes of viewers. J.D, a member of the Ua tribe has been giving us many laughs this season, however, it appears as if fellow Ua member, Shantel 'Shan' Smith, is really giving fans everything and then some!

Upon entry onto the island, Shan revealed that her Italian and pastor background makes her quite the cutthroat player and that she has been! With her cunning ways proving to work each and every week, it's evident that Shan just might take home this season's win.

"It’s so much fun to watch Shan play, great edit so far. I just can’t believe these players are falling over themselves to tell and give her EVERYTHING," one fan tweeted out tonight. Not only is she receiving a fan favorite edit, considering production knows exactly who we want to see, but she is earning it every step of the way!

While Shan is proving her ability in challenges, despite losing out on tonight's immunity challenge, it is her social game that will truly take her to the end, and rightfully so!

Shantel Is Playing A Stellar Social Game

When it comes to Shan's gameplay, it's apparent that her social game is amongst one of the best from not only her tribe but all three of 'em! Fans pointed out that only 7 days in, Shan managed to form a formidable bond with each and every one of her tribe members, allowing her to know what's going on at all times.

This all became crystal clear during tonight's episode when Shan had Brad in her pocket, allowing him to believe that she'd fight for him, when in fact, she sent Brad packing! Now, Shan shares a close alliance with J.D, Ricard, and even, Genie, securing her safety, all while keeping her name and gameplay intact for when the merge happens.

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Shan Took J.D's Advantage

While it's clear that her strategy is working wonders, the "mafia pastor" is doing her dirty work! Not only did she managed to get Brad to disclose his hidden idol and advantage, but Shantel also picked up on J.D having an advantage of his own!

J.D immediately let Shan and Ricard in on his secret advantage, which caused them to lose some trust in him. Well, Shan put on quite the performance of disappointment with J.D, ultimately getting him to hand over his advantage as a form of collateral.

So, now only did Shan managed to score herself J.D's advantage as a way to gain her trust back, but she also completely blew up Brad's game, meaning she blew up the two advantages he had, as well. With Shan making moves like it's nobody's business, all while maintaining a stellar social game, it's no surprise that Shan could really win it all.

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