The editors keep showing Denise mentioning that she got out the Queen. I think this matters, because I think Denise is trying to get to the final four, not three. She may be the only one that realizes that might be more critical than saying final three. Since at four it’s a fire challenge, getting to there means there’s a chance to get to the final tribal council, and she can plead her case there, which is a pretty good one. she’s worked herself into the dominant group of Tony, Sarah and Ben.
She’s more likeable (social game) than Tony, and has done more than Ben or Sarah (out-play). So sitting at four, and either winning immunity, getting picked to go to final, or winning the fire challenge gives her a good chance to win overall.
(I’m assuming the next target is Michele, with the EoE returnee going at five since there’s good chance they’ll bring an idol with them.)