AS 7 vs. AS 9

I am rewatching AS7, and good lord that was peak drag. It had me thinking about criticisms that AS9 is underwhelming due to it being a charity season and "low stakes." I don't think that's it. I think it is far more simple than that. The cast just doesn't have great chemistry. AS7 was glorious and there was both fun and competitiveness without anyone able to go home.

Now, to be clear, I don't think AS9 is bad by any means. I enjoy it enough. But I get that it isn't the best season by a mile I just don't think it's due to a "lack of stakes." What do you think?