by David McAlpine

Last week on The Biggest Loser, it was a shortened episode (big thanks to The Voice), but there was just as much action as the players returned from New Zealand.

As if the producers were already running thin on twists for the show, this week was officially dubbed "Favorites Week" where Biggest Loser contestants from seasons past would be joining the contestants this week on their continued weight loss journey.

First up are Ali Vincent (winner, season 5) and Sam Poueu (season 8) to show the contestants that their weight loss can really be done outside the house. Sam is now a personal trainer and Ali is a motivational speaker, so not only do they both know what they're talking about, but they're both on the go, so they have some great tips for healthy snacks and meals.

For this week's challenge, it's not for immunity or weight reduction reward, but rather a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The contestants are back at the Auto Club Speedway of Southern California where, in season 7, contestants had to each pull a car behind them half a mile down a stretch of track. It was during that challenge that Tara had a burst of girl power and showed everyone that a woman can be strong, too.

In this week's challenge, everyone would be competing against Tara for $5,000 and a chance to go with NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer to an upcoming event. Oh, and they'll get their face on a Wheaties box. Cool, right?

Rulon starts out with a very early lead, with Tara right behind him and Austin solidly in third. Rulon starts to pull away until he starts to give out, breathing heavier, allowing Tara and Austin to break out into runs and letting them catch up. Before you know it, Tara and Rulon are feet from the finish line and neck-and-neck. It's a photo finish, but Tara takes home the $5,000 prize for her charity and the visit with Clint Bowyer.

This week, the trainers want to see high numbers. No one has an excuse for not performing this week--they're back from New Zealand and it's time to step it up. Rulon, on the other hand, was inspired by Sam and realized he doesn't necessary need to stay. Rulon decides that, if it's his turn, he'll be fine going home by himself.

And that's exactly what he does at the weigh-in. He himself doesn't weigh-in, he simply leaves the show for personal reasons (which I think we're told to assume is that he reached his goal weight), and he's off the show. Still, no one is off the hook yet! There's still a weigh-in, and the results are as follows:

Olivia: -6 (-3.57%)
Hannah: -5 (-3.11%)
Austin: -7 (-2.80%)
Jay: -7 (-2.64%)
Irene: -3 (-1.91%)
Kaylee: +2 (+1.23%)

This leaves Irene, the first woman to lose 100 pounds while on the ranch, and Kaylee, the ever-yo yoing dieter, up for elimination. There doesn't seem to be much debate--both want to stay, but Kaylee knows she's reached her goal weight. Hannah votes for Kaylee to go and Austin votes for Irene, but Olivia votes for Kaylee, sending her home.

While at home, though, it's clear that Kaylee has gained a lot more confidence and (surprise!) a new boyfriend. This season's cameo star, Vance from the White Team, and her are dating and she loving every minute of it. She's studying to be an MMA trainer and hopes to maintain her goal weight for the finale.

The Biggest Loser airs Sundays at 8/7c on NBC.

(Photo courtesy of NBC)

Follow David on Twitter: @DavidMcAlpine