Fall Preview, Pt. 4

I continue with my look at the new fall season today with a look at some shows that need to improve this season.

Glee, Tuesdays at 8p.m. on FOX. Starts Sept. 20

During its first season, I was enamored of "Glee." Last year, the show was all over the place in terms of story and became too issue driven. It's also hard to deny the show, it's songs, and it's starts have been a little over-exposed. After a weird reality show competition to add to the cast, another concert tour, a movie, and an underwhelming second season, can the show bounce back or will it continue to flounder. That's the question that must be answered in this third season.

The Mentalist, Thursdays at 10p.m. on CBS. Starts on Sept. 22

"The Mentalist" is another show that was great during it's first season — thanks mostly to the work of Simon Baker in the lead role — and has been uneven ever since. The end of the third season provided a shocking twist that could serve as the foundation for growth in season four. If not, this might be a series that continues to spiral down.

House, Mondays at 9p.m. on FOX. Starts Oct. 3

The seventh season of "House" started with promise and ended in a weird place. This is rumored to be the final season, which might be fitting. With major cast upheaval and jumping back into the story after a curious cliff hanger, there is plenty of work to be done to ensure the show continues/goes out on a high note.

The Office, Thursdays at 9p.m. on NBC. Starts Sept. 22

Last year was the final bow for Steve Carell. Now, "The Office" has to find a new center and a new rhythm — with James Spader. I give them credit for out-of-the-box casting, but it will be interesting to see how the show recovers for a full season without Michael Scott.