The show did get more thriller as it went on, however, stuff like the grandmother reveal tonight really creeped me out.

I believe that Regan had some measure of control over Pazuzu, and I think he knew that if he were to start killing people she loved, she would never submit to him. I agree with your point about Simon, though, very disappointing.

This show has been a joy to watch since the beginning, and I too am gunning for a second season. Most horror shows gracing the airwaves aren't really that good, but this is a show where I've been both very interested in what will happen and I've been sufficiently creeped out quite a few times.