2 things that went right on the June 24 episode of SmackDown

Another week, another Roman Reigns-less episode of WWE SmackDown that felt inconsequential to the promotion’s larger plans.

To be fair, every episode of SmackDown doesn’t need to reach all-timer territory — also, that’s an unreasonable expectation for even the most well-booked promotions — but you’d think that WWE would dedicate more energy to making these shows more interesting. Apparently, that’s what a lack of roster depth will do to a company’s ability to construct quality programs.

As lackluster as this SmackDown was, WWE still gave the viewers some high points that kept the show from being a complete waste of time. Those moments are what we’re here to discuss today.

These are two things that went right on the June 24 episode of SmackDown.

Shotzi qualifies for the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match

WWE has made a lot of mistakes with Shotzi since calling her up from NXT nearly a year ago. The promotion has wasted months of her career insisting that she portrays an angsty heel despite being a natural babyface, a decision that looks worse now that SmackDown has no likable babyfaces on the roster in the wake of Sasha Banks and Naomi’s departures.

Knowing this, it was nice to see Shotzi pin Tamina (subbing for an injured Aliyah) and qualify for the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match. WWE likely put her in the match to fill a spot, but it’s still an opportunity for her to get over with the audience and set herself up for a more prominent role in the women’s division.

Of course, WWE will ultimately determine whether Shotzi gets a more sustained push, but a strong performance in the ladder match could help her cause.

Pat McAfee challenges Happy Corbin to a match at SummerSlam

In the past (and even now), I’ve had my issues with Pat McAfee. Some of that stems from the organization he chose to join after retiring from the NFL, followed by his wrestling fantasy camp performance as a heel in NXT.

As a color commentator on SmackDown, he offers little analytical substance but fans have enjoyed the refreshing authenticity and enthusiasm (even if some of it is over-the-top) he brings as Michael Cole’s broadcast partner. Those traits have also made him arguably the best babyface on the main roster, as seen throughout the promo he cut on Happy Corbin.

While the promo occasionally veered into “parody of pro wrestling” land, McAfee exuded more charisma than 95 percent of the WWE roster (tends to help when you’re allowed to be yourself). The man controlled the crowd like a seasoned pro, and as a result, he accomplished the nigh-impossible: getting fans excited for a Happy Corbin match.