Really, Orinjmate, Hacks do not have to rely on graphics in order to win the Hack of the Year, unless they're Ruby and Emerald Hacks. Those Roms require graphic changes. But for Fire Red, it doesn't require any graphic changes, because the FR Tiles themselves are awesome enough.
And of course scripts, maps and the storyline is important as well.
But the most important things for a Hack to the win the Hack of the Year are the scripts, maps and sprites. That's all I have to say. Don't start any unnecessary arguments with others unless you know the truth.