24: Redemption was aptly named, because of it's ties to the reality of the series. Redemption was in fact a redemption for the series.
Despite season 6 having been a horrible season, it still was one of the best shows on. Btw, for the record, and hopefully the producers, writers and studios will see this, but every time 24 has a "To be continued" cliff-hanger, the following season sux (for 24). Season 6 was another of those not up to 24 par seasons. I'm guessing the reason is, 24 uses these cliff-hangers and then when the new season begins, they say, "4 months later" completely ignoring the entire cliff-hanger! They did that in season 2 or 3 and again in season 5. Note to the wise, and those that matter: DONT DO THIS ANYMORE!
Taking the year off, rather than trying to force an 8 hour season last year was probably the wisest thing. Rumor has it that 24 had the first 8 episodes ready to go, but, they looked back on it, and decided to rewrite.
What has occurred is a reminiscent, if not fresh look at things. Returning this season, so far, is Bill and Chloe, and a confused Tony Almeda. Confused as we don't don't what side he is on, after his "death" and the death of his wife, Michelle. Nor do we know if he is finished for the season, or if he turns up again later.
The typical agency mole is the show's huge dependancy factor, as is the "Jack's bad... No Jack's good...ok, everyone, Jack's the greatest Superhero ever" roller-coaster. One thing that is not as predictable, is 24 has seemingly dropped the mini 4 episodic plots, and has gone much longer with the plots, which seem to help develop the story better.
Even in a bad season, like 6, the show will be intense. But, it certainly helps to have a strong plot line and not just filler stuff, just to make it to 24 episodes, and season 7 so far, has managed to get back to it's game, and with some tenacity.