took on the President of the United States and made his case to more than 50 million Americans. Romney adopted the George Deukmejian Law of Politics. For President Barack Obama he seemed to be nursing his lead, trying to run out the clock. As James Carville implored, it seemed that the president didn't even want to be on the same stage with Romney. He reminded me of another president, George H.W. Bush, checking his watch during the middle of the debate ('Don't want to be late for dinner with Barbara...'). When a team plays prevent defense with the defensive backs deployed near the goal posts, as complaining fans have noted, they are playing prevent victory. To use another sports metaphor, Romney was drafting behind Obama's lead car Wednesday night waiting for the green flag to sling by his competitor. The pressure very clearly was on Romney two nights ago. As the underdog, he focused on preparation, execution and passing the test. Mission accomplished. The pressure now reverts to Obama for the second presidential debate on Tuesday, October 16. Will Obama run as if he is running behind? He should, but will he? He needs to be prepared, be animated, but particularly in a town hall format, he needs to remain presidential...not aloof and dispassionate. And certainly not mean. The majority of political opinion polls are starting to swing back in Romney's direction. We will know by how much by this coming Sunday or Monday. He will receive an inevitable "bounce"