Well, I must say that I'm EXTREMELY impressed with the efficacy of the SMOLOV program. I have added a solid 115 lbs. to my squat in 13 weeks. The claims are legitimate.
Here are a sequence of videos from tonight. My first 1RM attempt was at 425 lbs. It went up easy, so I powered through 450 lbs. The guys kept pushing me to try 495 lbs., but I got stuck in the hole. I might have been able to achieve it had I skipped one of the other 1RM attempts, but there's always next time. At least I know that my goal of achieving a 500 lb. squat is both realistic and attainable.
P.S. My buddy spotting me has a best squat of 650 lbs. and he reps 450 lbs. about 10 times. Strong guy!!