Big week on the small screen

Monday begins what's known in the TV world as the "upfronts," when the networks announce their new fall programming and schedules in New York.

The term upfront is used because it's when the advertisers pay money "up front" in the spring, for shows that they plan on advertising on. And the network often gives them better rates now before they hit the air.

It's a bit of a gamble -- for both the advertiser and network. For example, if General Motors wants to advertise on a new ABC show at a rate of $50,000 for a one-minute spot, they can do that ... but the catch is nobody knows if that show will be a hit. They could be getting a bargain if the show turns into "Desperate Housewives" and any unclaimed commercial time goes for $200,000 in October, after the show has premiered.

On the other hand, if the show becomes "Threat Matrix" -- what, you don't remember that one? -- and nobody's watching, then you might've been better off waiting til the fall to see how the show performs ratings-wise.

So what will be this season's "Desperate Housewives" and which will be "Threat Matrix"? As the lineups are announced, I'll share what I think may be ones to keep an eye on and will give a more thorough report and after watching the pilots during the summer.