Here's a secret! If you have TiVO, go ahead and record the show, and then start watching it about 15 minutes after it starts. DH and I have done that for three seasons now. We can't stand waiting through the commericals during 24, and this works so well. Waiting just 15 minutes is enough to skip all the commercials, and having the show end about the same time as it normally would, without ever catching up to "real time". Just be sure to set your recording to last about 5 minutes longer, so it doesn't cut off any of the "Next Week on 24" previews!!!
We love that show so much!! And this season is great, except for the "Hobbit" (That's what I've been calling him; sorry, Sean Astin fans!). He is driving me crazy!! I mean, seriously, how many times is he going to order Jack to be detained this season? Although, it looks like he's finally going to lose it next week. I can't wait to see what happens.