Emmys 2012: Battle of the ‘Modern Family’ actors

A lot of friends and colleagues are up against each other in the acting categories at the 2012 Emmy Awards. “Modern Family” has Julie Bowen and Sofia Vergara in the supporting comedy actress category, and Ty Burrell, Eric Stonestreet, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Ed O’Neill battling it out. (Max Greenfield and Bill Hader fill out the supporting comedy actor ticket.)

Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert will fight the good fight in the variety series category. Good friends Amy Poehler and Tina Fey have faced off on “SNL” as Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin; now they’re up against each other as lead actresses on their own shows.

Everyone says nice things about each other in terms of who wins the Emmy - but in what contest would they really trounce their friendly competition?

“Pole vault!” Ferguson said on the red carpet. “I have high hopes for my chances in the pole vault.”

Jason Winer, a director nominated for his work on “Modern Family” (he has directed 18 episodes) breaks it down: “Ty is most dapper: We have to dress him down for the show. Eric might win best improvisor. And Ed is a black belt in jiu jitsu, so he’d win any fight.”

Meanwhile, Aziz Ansari spoke up for his “Parks and Recreation” boss, Amy Poehler, who is up against heavyweights including Lena Dunham and Louis C.K. for writing, as well as Fey for acting.

“Amy would destroy in any contest. Pingpong, rugby, you name it,” Ansari said adding, “No offense to Tina. No offense to anyone.”

ALSO:

PHOTOS: Top Emmy winners

PHOTOS: Emmys red carpet arrivals

FULL COVERAGE: 2012 Primetime Emmy Awards