I've heard this leading up to the Republican debates and yet it did not happen.
I doubt he'd do any better against Hillary. Cruz seems to think it is a Harvard debate and some moderator will award him the win.
A rapport with the audience is far more critical than superior debating skills.
If you cannot make an emotional connection to people, being the smartest guy in the room is of no help.
Trump seems to have that connection to people and Cruz doesn’t.
Its not just the luck of the draw that defines a leader.
In the Republican debates, Cruz would not sink to insults and name-calling. In the Presidential debates, he will eviscerate Hillary since the level of discourse will be higher and focused on policy differences.