Adam Scott, "Parks and Recreation"

Nomination Status: There's a paucity of former nominees in this category, which might -- heaven forbid -- open the door for a performer who actually DESERVES the nomination.

In His Favor: "Parks and Recreation" is one of the two best comedies on TV and Adam Scott had a spectacular season, playing out a funny, but also completely earnest romantic-comedy love story opposite one of the genre's very finest actors. If Emmy voters watch and embrace Amy Poehler -- and there's no excuse for failing in that regard -- one ought to notice that her frequent scene foil was matching her beat-for-beat.

Working Against Him: Getting award nominations for non-Poehler "Parks and Rec" performers has been bafflingly difficult. Nick Offerman's work has Ron Swanson is so broadly funny it ought to be obvious Emmy bait and it hasn't been. Scott's performance is less overt and therefore seems even less likely to be honored. Plus, Scott is going head-to-head with Rob Lowe in this category, which may split what support there is. Scott makes my Top 6 without question.