Weighing the strengths and weaknesses of the serious series contenders.
The Emmys is the most exciting awards show to watch because it features the most jaw-dropping upsets.
But that makes it the toughest to predict.
Winners are determined by small groups of judges evaluating sample videos, not by all 13,000 members of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences expressing industry buzz about TV shows and stars in general that can be sensed from afar.
Here's the inside track on the top races.
Drama seriesEverybody's saying that "The Sopranos" has this in the bag. But everybody isn't an Emmy expert. Rarely do series win after they exit the airwaves and this one left viewers hanging. "The Sopranos" has lost five times and won only once (2004).
Yes, it still may be the front-runner because it's the Greatest TV Show Ever -- and if any series can break the curse, "Sopranos" can -- but alternatives must be considered.
"Boston Legal" doesn't pack as much muscle as its predecessor, "The Practice," which beat out "Sopranos" in 1999.
"Heroes" could swoop into the winner's circle. Its sci-fi/fantasy elements usually doom a contender, but "Lost" prevailed two years ago when it was the hot new show. One factor that could hurt its chances: "Heroes" may be too young-skewing.
Of the two nominated medical shows, "House" may be too focused on just one person, who's too grumpy at that.
"Grey's Anatomy" may have just the right prescription to win. It's classy. It feels important. It's overdue. Could be an irresistible combo to voters.
