Emmys: TVGuide.com's Picks for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Emmy season is underway! For the next week, Emmy voters will be checking off names and shows they think are worthy of getting a nomination come July 18. We at TVGuide.com have a few selections in mind ourselves. Next up: our dream ballot for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

Emmys: TVGuide.com's picks for supporting actress in a drama series
Michael Cudlitz, Southland
An unfair longshot, Cudlitz has been first-rate since the series premiere and only got better. As John Cooper continued to spiral, the actor, who won the Critics' Choice Award two weeks ago, dove deeper into his complicated, wounded psyche all the way to the show's (and possibly Cooper's) painful end. This is the last chance for the Emmys to recognize Cudlitz and Southland, which has never been nominated in a major category (it has two stunt coordination wins).
Guillermo Diaz, Scandal
If you're pressed for time, just check out "Seven Fifty-Two" to see Diaz's chops. Shedding light on Huck's tortured (in every way possible) past, the episode is a powerful showcase for Diaz, who exceptionally runs the gamut of emotions and personalities in revealing what has left Huck teetering on the edge of sanity. It's superb, heartbreaking and strong enough to win — if he can get in.
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Consistently excellent, Dinklage, the 2011 winner, always delivers on Tyrion's wit and wily ways, but nothing was more entertaining than watching him face off with Charles Dance as Tyrion's daddy issues multiplied. Also, two words: drunk Tyrion.

Emmys: TVGuide.com's picks for comedy series

Mandy Patinkin, HomelandConsidering Homeland's huge sweep last year, it's even more surprising that Patinkin was snubbed. While Season 2 was problematic, Patinkin churned out one fantastic performance after another and anchored the series. Best of all, he supplied one of the most poignant scenes of the year with Saul's prison visit to Aileen.Aaron Paul, Breaking BadThough the first half of Season 5 dialed back on Jesse's screen time (apt for those who felt Paul should've submitted in lead last year after his heavy presence in Season 4), Paul wasn't any less riveting. The defending and two-time champ remains the bleeding heart of the show — just watch his breakdowns after finding the planted ricin cigarette and the train heist killing and try not to feel for him. But let's be real: He deserves all the Emmys for this.Corey Stoll, House of CardsSeason 1 was as much Stoll's show as it was Kevin Spacey's. The actor not only terrifically went toe-to-toe with Spacey, but absolutely wrecked us. An unwitting pawn in Frank's political war, Stoll's addiction-addled congressman was mesmerizing, as he struggled with his demons and was ultimately ruined by Frank.Who do you think should be nominated?