While none of the clues was particularly clever or "punny," there were many interesting ones, which taken as a whole made for a good puzzle. Tired clues were replaced with innovative ones; for example:
Bench warmers aren't on it for ATEAM instead of Mr. T's TV show.
Vocalized for ORAL instead of a biological reference.
Defendent's answer for PLEA instead of urgent request.
City of State Fair of Texas for DALLAS instead of a pro team.
Out of this world for ALIEN instead of the movie.
Other entertaining clues:
American competitor DELTA
Mass of grass CLUMP
BMOC, for one VIP
Pump or loafer SHOE
Surfing area with no water... WEB
Ogle LEERAT [clue and answer are usually reversed]
