‘American Idol’ Down To A Toss-Up

And now there are two. In one of the toughest “American Idol” seasons, it’s down to the glam rocker and the choirboy.

It’s the dark one vs. the dark horse.

On the finale this week we have Adam Lambert, the charismatic juggernaut who has wowed the “Idol” judges all season, going up against Kris Allen, the dark horse who has quietly built a large and loyal following, especially among teen and tween viewers.

Both have marketable talents. But they are about as different as Elvis and Pat Boone (a reference point for the grandmothers who love this show) or as different as Amy Winehouse and Miley Cyrus (if you need a younger reference point).

Who will win?

Despite Simon Cowell’s reminders that “Idol” is supposed to be a singing competition, the viewers always turn it into a popularity contest in which looks and likeability carry a lot of weight.

Why Kris could win:

The 23-year-old college student has clean-cut good looks (good teeth, neat hair). He appears to be as nice as they come.

A devout Christian with a pretty wife, he comes off as a sensitive, humble soul from Conway, Ark. Please note: Singers from small towns always have an edge in this competition.

With a voice suited for pop music, Kris is very much like last year’s winner, David Cook. Most importantly, he appeals to mothers and daughter, the group that votes and votes often.

And he may benefit from a potential backlash against Simon from viewers who think the persnickety judge has been unfairly favoring Adam.

Also, Kris is the most likely one to pick up those disappointed Danny Gokey supporters. And finally, those who don’t like Kris are merely lukewarm in their dislike. But those who don’t like Adam really, really don’t like him.

Why Adam could win:

The 27-year-old musical theater veteran from California has sailed through the competition with impressive vocals and amazing polish. As Paula, Randy and Kara have declared several times, he is already a rock star.

Simon has predicted Adam will win. Is Simon ever wrong?

Adam also appears to have won over millions of “glambert” fans who find his smoldering, sexually ambiguous style compelling.

While some may see him only as the lead in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,“ others are rooting for a new type of “Idol” who is not bland or predictable. He may be the most exciting, unpredictable and original performer in the show’s history.

He may benefit from voters who find Kris Allen too cute and too vanilla.

What do you think?

Which one will win the title on the season finale of “American Idol”?