“John McCain has an opportunity to solidify his position as the front-runner and show his leadership skills and experience in a convincing manner,” Gerow added.

“Huckabee will use his personal charm and populist appeal to shore up his base, it’s important that he now show that he can reach voters outside his comfort zone.”

The big question, Gerow says, is "who will pick up the votes that would have gone to Thompson?”

“Huckabee maybe, but more than likely, it will be Romney,” Gerow said.

Gerow says that Romney is polished and effective, but what Romney needs to demonstrate is “that he is the best manager of the bunch and has the experience in business to most effectively deal with a shaky economy.”

“Some debates aren’t vital ... tonight’s is.”

“The stakes are high, the field has narrowed, and the focus and scrutiny will be more intense.”