TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"The Unit" debut, 8 p.m., CBS. On one level, this is a military show — taut and tough. We meet an elite team of Special Forces officers with Dennis Haysbert (President Palmer in "24") as its field leader. On another, this views life back at the base. When a newcomer (Scott Foley) arrives, his wife learns that the usual rules don't apply. She has no choice of where — or, maybe, how — to live. For her, this is like entering "Stepford Wives," a place of group-think. "The Unit" has sharp words, via Shawn Ryan ("The Shield") and playwright David Mamet. It hands them to fine actors, including Regina Taylor as Haysbert's wife.

"Sons & Daughters" debut, 8 and 8:30 p.m., ABC. Watching this comedy isn't easy. There are 16 characters in three generations of a dysfunctional family. Dialog is improvised, with no studio audience. Stick around, however, and you'll find scattered laughs and interesting characters. Tonight, there's discontent among the grandparents (who are played by Max Gail and Dee Wallace).

OF NOTE

"American Idol," 7 p.m., Fox. This week, the show trims from 16 contestants to its 12 finalists. Tonight, the eight women sing.

"According to Jim." 7 and 7:30 p.m., ABC. In the first episode, Jim actually tries to become tactful. In the second, Joseph Bologna plays the father who abandoned him.

"House," 8 p.m., Fox. Howard Hesseman plays a patient who needs an immediate transplant.