Will the youngsers shine again in this 'American Idol' season?

Seven cities, over 100,000 auditions and we're almost to Hollywood. But first we have to wring out the last possible drops of air time (as well as balance the production schedule so we can start Hollywood week on a Tuesday). Shouldn't we have seen these the first time?

Is this the year of the teens? One or two usually make it through Hollywood, though there were 10 teens in the top 24 of season 5. Not including the mess that was Sanjaya Malakar, or those who don't do much other than annoy (Mikalah Gordon), there are three basic teen groups. There is the completely overmatched (Kevin Covais, Season 5); those that start strong but can't sustain it (Paris Bennett, Season 5); and the spectacular (Jordin Sparks and Allison Iraheta). Season 9 so far has some of each.

Amanda Shectman, 19, has already been set up to be the annoying one we love to hate for this season. Her little acceptance speech was all affectation and fake tears. She needs to tone it down NOW but the Hollywood previews showed her bellyaching about something. I hope I'm wrong but I've seen this song and dance before, and it's not going to get her to the "spectacular" category.

Rachel Hubbard, 16, and Genesis Moore, 16, both had presence in their auditions, but is that enough? Lisa Tucker, Season 5, had that but couldn't bring the personality to her performance and get the votes.

Then there is Aaron Kelly, the 16-year-old who was adopted and raised by his aunt and uncle. Not only did he sing an age-appropriate song and help me forget that it's a Mylie Cyrus song (both a bonus), he was a hit with the judges for being young and shy in addition to having a strong voice. Randy called him cool and endearing and Simon agreed! Yes, the AI earth has been thrown off its axis!

Or maybe Kelly just reminds them of David Archuleta? I know plenty of ladies of a certain age who adored Archie because he was sooooo cute!!!!! They just want to squeeze those cheeks!!! Cough, cough, gag ... this rocker preferred the other David. But will Aaron get those same votes? Simon did say he thought the moms would like him, so ... .