MADRESPECT

ACTNATURAL"Quick, look like you're not up to something!" FIREBLANKSOne way to start a race … or a hint to understanding seven clues in this puzzle GUARANTEEDSure ___ EXTRALIVESBoosts in some games INSTIGATORPopular man occupying dump next to a hill is prime mover OHFORGETITReaction to the unsuccessful "conversation" in this puzzle EQUESTRIANIs Queen Rat travelling on horseback? PEACHYKEENDandy HALFSECONDSentient computer following subordinate for a moment PATTERSONGMaybe Humphries' alter ego beginning to grasp Gilbert and Sullivan's speciality CASHBUFFERMoney set aside to cover emergency expenses HALFEXPECTConsider possible, but not guaranteed LACLIPPERSSoCal NBA team ACETICACIDOne on prickly cacti I found on surface of desert – that’s sharp! (6,4)