“Monk/Psych/Burn Notice” (USA Network)

In keeping with Super Bowl mania, “Monk,” “Psych,” and “Burn Notice” all have upcoming episodes that center around football. The good news is that all football stories/references are relative to the plot and do not feel forced or contrived.

First up is “Monk.” This is one of the best shows on the USA Network and watching Tony Shalhoub go through the motions of Monk week after week is a rare television pleasure. In this “football” episode Monk gets two tickets to the big game thanks to his friendship with Bob Costas.

Of course he stumbles on to a murder and misses the game. Plus the ending of the show is forced and unbelievable. “Monk” is usually much better than this, and the first of the “football” shows ends up in the loser’s column. Add Costas to that “loser” bunch as his performance is amateurish and embarrassing.

Next up is “Psych,” a show that has grown on me. The combination of James Roday and Dule Hill as a “psychic” and his best friend gets better each and every week. Roday has a natural charm and Hill is the perfect cohort for him.

In this “football” episode Shawn (Roday) goes undercover as a place kicker while Gus (Hill) poses as a trainer. They are trying to track down the killer of a place kicker whose severed foot was found. This show has more logic than did the “Monk” episode, and it also has a good turn by guest star Mykelti Williamson as the coach of the team.

“Burn Notice” is the last USA Network shows to have the “football” theme and it is the best of the group. Jeffrey Donovan, Gabrielle Anwar and Bruce Campbell are at the top of their game as friends living in Miami and solving crimes. Okay it is a little more complex than that but that is basically what they do.

In the sports themed episode they do a favor for a friend who is a coach and get rid of a gang that is harassing one of his players. How they manage to get the gang out of town is interesting and fun – and logical.

“Burn Notice” is another show that has gotten better and better as its ensemble cast has gelled. Donovan is the star but Anwar and Campbell are essential to his success. They all supplement and compliment each other.

The special “Burn Notice” episode premieres Thursday, January 29 at 10PM on the USA Network. “Monk” plays its episode on Friday, January 30 at 9PM followed by the “Psych” show at 10PM. The USA Network has a lot of entertainment in store for you. Don’t miss any of the three.

©2009 Jackie K. Cooper