I think you nailed it. TWD takes itself way too seriously, when not doing fake cliffhangers about who died this time.

He comes once, makes threats, promises to return. He returns early, stands outside the gate AGAIN. I would have used that.

Zima? Oh crap…if Zima is the only adult beverage available, I might as well go bite a zombie.

No, it's actually not punk rock at all.