With three channels competing in the race for the 29th annual Sports Emmys, ESPN managed to pip HBO at the post with 33 noms (27 for ESPN, 5 for EPSN2, and a single nod for ESPN Classic) versus 31 for the paycaster. With no Olympics last year, NBC had to make do with 23 nominations.

However, HBO does get bragging rights to having the top two series with five nods apiece for "Inside the NFL" and "Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel." Pity the poor HBO exec who now has to explain why he canceled "Inside the NFL" after 31 seasons.

"Real Sports" is sure to win at least one Emmy as it has all four nominations in the sports journalism category. And Byrant Gumbel is up for best studio host, competing with Bob Costas (HBO/NBC), Al Trautwig (Versus), Ernie Johnson(TNT/TBS) and James Brown (CBS).

Absent the Olympics (they usually dominate these Emmys when in the running), the most recognized sports were football (including Super Bowl XLI, natch) and NASCAR.

Winners will be unveiled on April 28 at Frederick P. Rose Hall in Lincoln Center in New York City. Frank Chirkinian, widely known as the "Father of Televised Golf," will receive a lifetime achievement award.

See the full list of nominees: CLICK HERE.