Tonight’s debate was like watching an NFL training camp in it’s early weeks of the summer. Some of the players obviously had the tools to survive the first rounds of cuts in the money primary and early primaries and caucuses while others had trouble showing the crowd they belong at this level of the game. Here is how I saw the players and their performances as if they were fighting to win the job of Republican Quarterback.
Ron Paul: Obvously the first cut. The libertarian stuff can be cute sometimes but his archaic foreign policy views and no national following of consequence mean it’s time to run for re-election to the House. Looked a little too much like Ross Perot for my comfort.
Tommy Thompson: There was a time when Tommy had tools and would have been intriguing as a candidate coming to camp. Unfortunately for him, it’s been a long time since he’s played at the level that would make you think hard about keeping him on the squad. Boring. He’ll be lucky to make it to the first states.
Fred Thompson: Currently absent from camp and has been placed on the "Did Not Report" List. Hard to win the big job and the confidence of the Coaches (Voters) when you aren’t getting reps in camp and not playing in the pre-season games.
Tom Tancredo: Has been known to only run one play successfully, the "Picket Fence." Had trouble handling the pressure and will be an early cut. Should catch on again with the House of Representatives team in Colorado before they get a new QB.
Mike Huckabee: Exceeded expectations. Articulated his views well. Unfortunately for him there are much better upsides from the top prospects in camp.
John McCain: The surprising #2 in 2000’s training camp where he earned a reputation as a difficult player, McCain is counting on his experience to influence the coaches to give him the job.