Emmy Spotlight: Could Modern Family's Supporting Actors Split the Vote?

After investigating the other comedic races, it's time to ask: Who's running off with the 2010 Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy? This year, the question comes with philosophical underpinnings: Is it more honorable to serve a dependable, under-rewarded actor, a quartet of shiny newcomers, or a past winner? Let's break down all the odds, including the chances of a Glee or Modern Family victory.

Notable Snubs: Rainn Wilson, The Office, Jeremy Piven, Entourage, Tracy Morgan, 30 Rock, Jack McBrayer, 30 Rock

Neil Patrick Harris - How I Met Your Mother

For Him: For a man that the world associates with vaudevillian awards show flair, he has yet to snag an Emmy win for his role as Barney Stinson. This season of HIMYM wasn't close to its best, but NPH remains an original as the show's compulsively composed gadabout.

Against Him: It's an attractive year for newcomers, as Glee and Modern Family have redeemed musical television and family-based sitcoms in their first seasons.

Odds: 2-1

Ty Burrell - Modern Family

For Him: Burrell plays the most lovable character out of the six nominees and is line for line the funniest member of the bunch. With Phil Dunphy, Burrell takes the classically uncool-cool dad and gives him single-camera timing, and his submitted episode, "Game Changer," is clearly his best work. "Honey, it's OK, I don't feel things anymore."

Against Him: The sheer amount of Modern Family nominees will split his vote.

Odds: 5-1

Chris Colfer - Glee

For Him: Though it racked up nominations in the lead actor and actress categories, it's Glee's supporting roles that viewers adore. Kurt is emotional but tough, smart but silly. Among teenagers on TV, he's a refreshing kind of caricature.

Against Him: Jane Lynch's sure bet for a supporting actress win will hinder Colfer, whose best one-liners still don't compare to Sue Sylvester's.

Odds: 10-1

Jon Cryer - Two and a Half Men

For Him: He's the only one in the group who's won the award before, and often the Emmys reward consistency. See: Everyone from Alec Baldwin to John Larroquette.

Against Him: He won it before, remember? This is a year about fresh meat.

Odds: 10-1

Eric Stonestreet - Modern Family

For Him: The "Fizbo" episode showed off his (literal) clowning abilities. Stonestreet lends the lovably guileless Cameron just the right measures of whimsicality and wackiness.

Against Him: Ty Burrell's episode selection is funnier.

Odds: 15-1

Jesse Tyler Ferguson - Modern Family

For Him: There's certainly nothing wrong with Ferguson's portrayal of Mitchell, the weary, yet affable redbeard. He matches Julie Bowen's sardonic mastery week after week.

Against Him: Ferguson submitted Modern Family's season finale for Emmy consideration -- apparently to highlight his frantic fight with a home-invading bird -- but nothing about its bland slapstick will stick with voters as winner material.

Odds: 25-1