As is complained about constantly, the rules of elimination on Top Chef leave a lot to be desired. Currently, one mistake in an otherwise strong contestant can get one thrown to the curb. Aiming to win a given week doesn't help you at all past that week. Being chosen as a leader on a team challenge is a lose-lose proposition because if that team loses, it's usually blamed on the leader, but being the leader on the winning team means no more than any other team member. Aiming for the middle of the pack every week is a valid strategy. Hell, just being next-to-last every week can get you to the finals, as Lisa showed in season four.
So, how would you change it up to be more fair, but still entertaining and suspenseful?