What makes a TV show suitable for prime time? If networks and creators had that recipe down, no series would ever crash and burn in its time slot. The fall season is traditionally a period of trial and error, and if past ratios of success-to-flop are any indication, there will be blood. Time will tell if these five new series make it, but right now, their inclusion on the prime-time schedule is ever so slightly baffling.

'The Exorcist' (FOX)

Can a horror series thrive under the strictures of basic cable censors? If "The Exorcist" employs creative horror similar to the three-season run of NBC's "Hannibal," maybe. Still, the Fox serialization of the chilling 1973 movie looks like it could get more mileage out of its demonic possession plot if it could have the content freedom that comes with a premium cable home.

'Imaginary Mary' (ABC)

With a plot reminiscent of the 1991 movie comedy "Imaginary Mary" feels like a relic of that era. Jenna Elfman plays a single woman who starts a relationship with a single dad (Stephen Schneider) against the advice of the furry little companion she dreamed up in her childhood (voiced by Rachel Dratch). Cue the realizations about stunted growth and metaphorical security blankets. If two "Ted" movies weren't enough for you, you might be into this late-bloomer comedy.

'Designated Survivor' (ABC)

In every television season, there are a few shows with concepts that sound like actual "30 Rock" jokes -- never forget "MILF Island," "God Cop," or "Black Frasier." In the 2016-2017 season, the award for the series Jack Donaghy would be most likely to green-light is ABC's "Designated Survivor." It stars erstwhile tough guy 24"?

'This Is Us' (NBC)

An ensemble dramedy with interlocking stories, "This Is Us" shows us the ordinary and extraordinary lives of several individuals who were born on the same day. Despite an interesting cast that includes American Crime Story"), the NBC series is a little too reminiscent of those joyless, overstuffed, holiday-themed movies of the last few years to inspire much confidence.

'Kevin Can Wait' (CBS)

The King of Queens."

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