I think that's what's happening. Last year there was only 3 chilis. One was very similar in taste to mine but done with beef cheek. The guy that made it is a career chef that makes some damn good food. We tasted each others during the judging and figured we were both in a lock for the 1 and 2 spot. We got 2nd and 3rd.I think maybe you are shooting over their heads and palates with your excellent smoked meat choices and spices. Not only do you win IMHO they lose.
lol....Nope, then I gotta eat all that crap too! If I keep doing it my way, I get the few compliments from folks that really enjoy mine despite cooking their own and I get a good meal.Next year maybe 70/30 yellow tagged burger. Williams seasoning a can of Walmart pintos and mix in Walmart brand Chef Boyardee Crap sauce along with half a bottle of Franks.
Save the whole pot of good stuff for home. Those people can be your little lab rats.
Jimmy Dean Regular and thanks!What kind of sausage did you use for the fatty. The chili looks awesome.