I really like this routine for strength, I usually cut for 6 weeks then use 5x5 for 6weeks to get my strength up then go to HST for 6-8 weeks for mass.
5x5 can be a bit rough on the joints though, and its best to use as many compound lifts as possible.
The most common reason people fail on this routine is they try to lift to much weight and cant make the 5 sets, or get bored because they are only doing 5 reps at the beginning sets and try to add more reps and cant finish the 5th set. Establishing the proper weight is key when using this routine.