I think Countdown is a really excellent show and Nick is the best presenter ever, with the exception of Richard Whitely. Susie is marvellous. And what is there not to like (and admire) about Rachel? My wife and I have watched it for years and we really enjoy it, especially when we manage to beat everyone in the studio (which isn't often!)
As I say, Nick is excellent, but he does occasionally seem to be a little biased in favour of certain contestants. The latest "octo-champ" was certainly a very good player at both the numbers and the words (though some recent players would have beaten her, I think). But Nick greeted virtually every word she compiled with an enthusiastic "Well done!" and was over-complimentary about her maths skills (which, I thought, were good, but not outstanding at all.) I do not think Nick shows as much enthusiasm for other very good players. We both found this somewhat irritating.
However, I repeat that we love the show and will continue to watch and to try to keep our grey cells active!