The broadcast networks have started rolling out their new series for the fall and of the 21 new shows they will debut in the coming months, only a handful merit much more than a shrug.

Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I had a hard time picking a Top 5. That assessment might be a bit unfair. I've seen just the pilot episodes of most of the new shows and it's difficult to judge an entire season by one episode. Last spring I gave NBC's "Smash" a rave review after seeing the well-done pilot; it quickly floundered and I could barely watch it just a few weeks later.

I have reservations about all the shows in my Top 5 this fall, so consider that when reading this preview. The cable networks still are churning out the highest quality shows. And that's the case again this fall, although PBS is offering some intriguing options and at least a couple the freshmen broadcast network series rise above mediocre. Several returning network shows are likely to dazzle with their new seasons.

Here are the 21 new network shows, ranked roughly in the order I like them. But as I said, that's probably going to change when I see more episode over the coming weeks.
Curt Wagner, RedEye's Show Patrol

READ: Cable shows worth watching.
READ: Scoop on returning shows.
READ: September TV premiere dates

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