| CUTIE | With 45-Across, one who's adorable |
| BLACK | With 27-Across, one who's into heavy metal? |
| LATIN | With 42-Across, one who might memorize 64-Across? |
| BEST | With 52 Across, one who may give a wedding speech |
| LATE | With 48-Across, one who is eventually successful |
| GEAR | With 23-Across, one who might be excited to look under a hood |
| PASTA | With 45-Across, dish often topped with Italian dressing |
| BEHINDTHE | Left with fewer choices (with 45-Across) |
| ATOMIC | With 45-Across, "54" for 38-Across |
| LESSEROF | With 45-Across, wise choice when faced with a dilemma |
| BAND | With 45-Across, what each of the long Across entries are |
| SHOHEI | With 45-Across designated hitter-pitcher with the Angels (2018-present) |
| GOES | With 45-Across, drops out of sight, literally |
| STUD | With 45 Across, Vegas game |
| RAFT | With 45-Across, river excursion |
| TOM | With 45 Across, Twain title character |
| CARSON | With 45-Across, former MTV star who hosts "The Voice" |
| ROCK | Music genre, with 45-Across |
| ISAAC | With 45-Across, 'The Bicentennial Man' author |
| SIGNALING | . . . on a football field, with 45 Across |
