She's mentioned Alaska several times tonight. Palin is smart to continue discussing her work as governor of Alaska. This is something that she has not done enough ... until tonight. This is precisely what Bill Clinton did in '92 (regarding Arkansas). It's what every smart governor who runs for president does ...
Also, it seems she's talking faster tonight. Talking faster makes one appear smarter. I wouldn't say she's blowing Biden away; I would say she is going toe-to-toe with him...