Hello and welcome to my third attempt at handicapping a winner of American Idol. Let's see how I do this year!
Chris Daughtry 2-1: Not since Fantasia have I seen such an obvious pick to win the competition. The only obstacle that Chris may face would be stumbling in subsequent theme weeks, but that's doubtful.
Kevin Covais 120-1: His cute act will wear out before the contest is over, and "votefortheworst.com" can only carry this guy so far.
Bucky Covington 80-1: I like Bucky because he's awfully unique. He'll probably last 3-4 weeks on the big stage.
Taylor Hicks 30-1: Taylor has "Top Six" written all over his face. He'll make it that far, but he'll undoubtedly hit the wall halfway through the competition. (I predict 1-2 mildly successful record albums from this guy.)
Elliot Yamin 30-1: Elliot has the potential to surprise everyone. He'll stay on for a long time if he can provide some really good performances.
Ace Young 40-1: About two weeks ago, I thought that Ace would be the favorite of the competition. I now see that he has limitations. He'll last a while. Lots of fans will turn on him.
Paris Bennett 15-1: Very similar to Ace inasmuch as that she seemed very promising at the beginning. Paris' act is wearing a bit thin on me however. I'd bet that she'll be in the top six, but I doubt that she'll last much longer than that.
Lisa Tucker 10-1: Compared to other contestants, I think that Lisa has "staying power." She's talented and cute. It's possible that she'll be in the top-three.
Melissa McGhee 125-1: Even though Melissa is my personal favorite, I realize that she'll hit the wall quite early. See: Amy Adams and Julia DaMato.
Katharine McPhee 15-1: I see her playing the "Diana DeGarmo Role" this time out. She'd be a good second-place to Chris.
Kellie Pickler 30-1: She'll last because she's lovable. She won't win, but she'll be famous for the rest of her life.
Mandisa 50-1: Mandisa is super-talented, but she is probably not marketable enough to make it much farther. I'd guess that she'll be the fourth eliminated.