NY Times Crossword
June 11, 2013
Pete Muller

The theme of this puzzle is ASSORTMENTS. Can you tell why from the themed clue answers below?

DRUG ABUSE
LAG BEHIND
PUB GAMES
BIG BANDS
CRAB GRASS

Answer:

Each answer phrase has the consecutive letters B, A, and G - though not in that order - suggesting MIXED BAGS - or ASSORTMENTS.