THEME: final -ANCE in two-word phrases changed to ANTS, a homonym that changes the meaning of the original phrase
GOOD ONES: "Block that kick" and "Dee-fense!"? SPORTINGCHANTS [sporting chance]
Temporarily contribute helpers? LENDASSISTANTS [assistance]
Kind of a drag? MAIN [as in "main drag": sadly I'm reminded of the horrid rock song of that name]
Head lock TRESS [oldie but goodie]
Welcoming sight? MAT [wonder if "site" would have worked]
BTW: It took me awhile to see that the -ANTS endings were homonyms for -ANCE. I suspect it might easily have been missed.
Supper preceder GRACE [note that "dinner preceder" might not work so well since
dinner tends to be more formal, more sophisticated; and, somehow, less likely to be preceded by grace. Dan has a good ear.]
I think the cluing throughout was above par --- not necessarily punny or humorous, just clever.
RATING:
Three grins = Loved it; Two grins = Enjoyed it; One grin = A bit bland for my taste; One teardrop = Not much fun
