I rewatched season 1 during the marathon. It didn't take long for Rick to get his butt handed to him by Merle. Seriously, I'd like to see Rick beat down someone just once in season 4.
Bit of an exaggeration... if anyone got their ass handed to them it was T-Dog.
The title of this thread should be changed to Rick "Motherscrewin" Grimes Thread
They both did. All that scene needed was Guy Gardner saying "One punch!" in the background after Merle floored Rick.