Numb3rs, Season Five

Charlie Eppes:
It sounds like they created a classic game theory scenario, doesn't it?

Marshell Pentfield:
Yes, it does. "Johnny von Neumann", the old three man gunfight.

Colby Granger:
A mathematical gunfight, huh?

Marshell Pentfield:
Imagine a duel between three people. Now, I'm the worst shot. I hit the target once every three tries.

[Indicates Charlie]

Marshell Pentfield:
One of my opponents is better. Hits it twice every three shots.

[Indicates Colby]

Marshell Pentfield:
The third guy is a dead shot. He never misses. Now, each gets one shot. As the worst, I go first. Then Charlie, then Colby. Who do I aim for, for my one shot?

Colby Granger:
I guess me 'cause I'm the biggest danger, right?

Marshell Pentfield:
[makes a gun shooting motion toward Charlie] I shoot Eppsey first, but not for the obvious reasons. Chances are two to one I'm going to miss.

Charlie Eppes:
And now it's my turn. Logic says I shoot Colby. [makes shooting motion toward Colby]

Colby Granger:
Right, 'cause if I'm still standing, I'm gonna shoot you, and I don't miss.

Charlie Eppes:
Exactly.

Marshell Pentfield:
As the worst, I use the two better shooters against each other.