“Aping” is kind of a pejorative way to describe what The Orville does. If they were “aping” TNG, they’d be imitating TNG in a very derivative manner. It’s more of an homage to TNG, but in a comedy format with original ideas and character dynamics.

The Orville’s first season is no worse than TNGs. There were some truly awful first season episodes of TNG. Code of Honor is a good example of an awful episode.

I don’t think better or worse comparisons are very meaningful. They’re both good shows. TNG has many of my favorite Trek stories and characters. I think it says a lot that it inspired so much of what The Orville does.