Semifinalist Crystal Bowersox's hospitalization forced the "American Idol" top 10 men to perform on Tuesday instead of Wednesday. USMagazine.com cites a source who says Bowersox was sent to the hospital because of diabetes complications.

When the men performed, Tuesday's episode seemed like a cutthroat battle for the "most improved" award.

Some rose to the challenge, kind of. Michael Lynche ("Big Mike") offered a soulful James Brown cover that proved he's more than just a good back story. Casey James wowed viewers when he showcased his electric guitar skills. Alex Lambert, initially known just for his mullet, acquired confidence and impressed the judges.

And while still near the bottom of the pack, Tim Urban managed to get a compliment from Simon Cowell.

But for the most part, Tuesday's show unfortunately reminded us why this season still seems lackluster. Former big names like John Park and Jermaine Sellers, even Andrew Garcia, seemed to fizzle under pressure.

Will the girls upstage them on Wednesday? We'll have to wait and see.

In the meantime, here's how I'd rank Tuesday's performances:

1. Michael Lynche, "It's a Man's Man's Man's World"

2. Casey James, "I Don't Want to Be"

3. Alex Lambert, "Everybody Knows"

4. Lee DeWyze, "Lips of an Angel"

5. Aaron Kelly, "My Girl"

6. Andrew Garcia, "You Give Me Something"

7. John Park, "Gravity"

8. Tim Urban, "Come On Get Higher"

9. Jermaine Sellers, "What's Going On"

10. Todrick Hall, "What's Love Got to Do With It"

Get a full recap of Tuesday's show on our "American Idol" blog.