Who is going to snag an Emmy on Sunday night?

It's that time of the year again -- Emmy season. And with the awards show running on Sunday night, now's the chance to lay out some of the likely statue winners. As any diehard television viewer knows, the awards don't always go to who necessarily deserves them.
Here's a look at some predictions, along with some thoughts on some pretty strong contenders.

Best Drama Series -- "Mad Men"

"Mad Men" will likely be the big winner of the night. The series had yet another strong season and has solidified its role as the darling of the Emmy voters.

Best Comedy Series -- "Modern Family"

Expect '"Modern Family" to beat out "Parks and Recreation," earning it back-to-back wins. It's consistently funny and universally likable, which should translate to lots of Emmy votes.

Best Actor in a Drama -- Jon Hamm

Despite stellar performances by Kyle Chandler in "Friday Night Lights" and Steve Buscemi in "Broadwalk Empire," expect Hamm to capitalize on a Bryan Cranston-free year and take the prize. Hamm's performance this season forever changed the way we view Don Draper.

Best Actress in a Drama -- Elisabeth Moss

While "The Good Wife's" Julianna Margulies and Kathy Bates from "Harry's Law" are bigger, more attractive names for Emmy voters, I think the nod will go to Elisabeth Moss. Her performance on "Mad Men" this season hit an elite level.

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama -- John Slattery

His might be the most stacked category of the night. While Walton Goggins and Peter Dinklage both had very strong seasons respectively on "Justified" and "Game of Thrones," it's likely this one will go to Slattery for his performance on "Mad Men." He's been nominated before and is due for a trip to the podium.

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama -- Margo Martindale

Margo Martindale's memorable role on "Justified" might just grant her the Emmy, while Kelly Macdonald's impressive role in "Boardwalk Empire" will probably be overlooked.


Best Actor in a Comedy -- Steve Carell


Louie C.K. had a tremendous first season on "Louie," but next year will likely be his year to get showered with awards. This year belongs to Steve Carell, especially after his touching final season as Michael Scott on "The Office."

Best Actress in a Comedy -- Laura Linney

Laura Linney should grab the win here. She had a strong first season of "The Big C" and the voters love to reward movie actors for making the jump to the small screen. Her biggest competition is Amy Poehler's impressive work on "Parks and Recreation."

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy -- Ed O'Neill


With four of the six nominees in this category, it's a safe bet that the winner will hail from "Modern Family." While an argument can be made for all four men, Ed O'Neill, with an intensely solid year, should win it.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy -- Jane Lynch


While the most likable choice is "Hot in Cleveland's" Betty White and the most consistent choice is "Modern Family's" Julie Bowen, Jane Lynch has the single strongest performance in "Glee's" emotional episode, "Funeral." And yes, she is also hosting this year's awards show.

Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series --"The Daily Show with Jon Stewart"


Chalk up another win for "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart." The show is consistently well-done and just as consistently loved by the voters.

Outstanding Reality-Competition Program -- "The Amazing Race"


There's a good chance "The Amazing Race" will regain the crown from "Top Chef." It's cooking up to be a bit of a race.

Outstanding Made for Television Movie or Miniseries -- "Mildred Pierce"

While "Downton Abbey" was critically acclaimed, one can't ignore simple mathematics: HBO Miniseries + Respected Film Star = Emmy Award. Count on "Mildred Pierce," which starred Kate Winslet in the title role.

Best Actor in a Movie or Miniseries -- Edgar Ramirez

Look for Edgar Ramirez, with his performance in "Carlos," to edge out Laurence Fishburne for his work in "Thurgood."

Best Actress in a Miniseries or Movie -- Kate Winslet


Kate Winslet is the likely choice. She was the backbone of "Mildred Pierce" and is the clear favorite.