It's true that the quality jumps around a bit. Breaking Bad was good EVERY episode, and will probably remain the better series when all is said and done. The story isn't necessarily predictable, as we all knew Sansa had sent a raven to petition the Arryn's (Littlefinger) a few episodes before. We all know the good guys are supposed to win in the end, and we are approaching the end. We know GRRM throws curveballs, but this is a story about Jon, Danny, and Tyrion. If they don't make it to the last book/season, then I would be surprised.
However, this hour of Television was some of the most intense you'll ever see. It was the most accurate depiction of being suffocated/trampled you'll ever see, and many people had to pause, or even skip, that part. Truly impressive film making.