American Idol: probably one of the most loved and loathed reality TV shows out there. But whatever side you fall on with one of the grandaddies of talent shows, it’s hard to deny that the sportsbooks are all over the odds for this thing. (Although I think that, with the last election, America finally has more political voters than AI voters. Or maybe it’s an even split now, I dunno.)

We’re now into season 8 of the show and, as it seems to be losing steam ratings-wise, the producers are utilizing new additions that will hopefully punch up their numbers. The addition of a fourth judge! The wavering success of former winners! The cameo possibilities! The impeding downward spiral of Paula Abdul’s substance abuse! (okay, so I don’t think that one’s intentional, but you have to admit watching Paula’s on-camera breakdown is entertaining)

Right now, the American Idol 8 betting lines are evenly matched at -115 for a male or a female winner. My girl Summer even managed to find some time out from her busy schedule of tanning and driving her convertible to do up a piece on American Idol 8 odds, so props to her (she’s predicting a female winner, by the way). Could do with some more pics of David Cook, though.

That’s better.