I have heard people bitching about the fact that they stopped doing stuff during the commercial breaks because it made stuff predictable, I think they found a good balance on that end in this episode. And I am a big Ricochet (Prince Puma!) fan so was glad to see him and Andrade get some shine. Some people I know think Sami may be getting a face turn, we will see.
As for Maria, I think the idea is brilliant, slows down the constant chaos of what has been the 24/7 belt, and also could allow for some creative ways to take it off her. My guess is Mike will have enough and pin her while she is sleeping or something