TV Bites: Dennis Farina Finds Luck Again With Michael Mann

· Chicago natives and past collaborators Michael Mann and Dennis Farina will reunite for HBO's horse-racing drama pilot, Luck. The project, which Mann will direct, was written by NYPD Blue writer/executive producer David Milch, and centers on the seedy world of horse racing and gambling as told through various characters close to the racetrack. At the center of Luck is Ace Bernstain, who leaves prison after three years to team up with Gus Economou (Farina), his longtime chauffeur and muscle, to craft a complex plan involving the track. John Ortiz will join the cast as Turo Escalante, a successful trainer with sordid reputation. [THR]

Another Friday Night Lights alum finds work, Rozlyn Papa expands her sex-tape empire, and more TV Bites after the jump.

· Friday Night Lights alum Jurnee Smollett has been cast in the CBS hourlong drama pilot Defenders as a newbie associate named Lisa. The potential series revolves around two charismatic and fiery Las Vegas defense attorneys who go to the mat for their clients. Jim Belushi has already been cast as one of the over-the-top defenders. [EW]

· The Bachelor's mansion-wrecker Rozlyn Papa may star in more than the one sex tape reported yesterday. [TMZ]

· Former Price Is Right host and inveterate animal-rights crusader Bob Barker is urging SeaWorld to release their sea animals following the death of a trainer earlier this week. [USA Today]

· Both TV Land's How'd You Get So Rich? and Spike's Blue Mountain State have been picked up for second seasons. [Variety]