No need. Kerry was much more on point, although wrongly, but Bush was on "talking points". Who the hell advised him to do that?
Also, the hard thing about these debates is that the President doesn't have all that much to gain from them. He has a margin that's likely about as big as it will get, and his mission is mainly just to hold onto that margin. Kerry needs every bit of help he can get, these debates are his last hope, meaning he's much more likely to speak out, to take chances, if you will.
Totally disagree with you--you should rewatch or relisten to the debate. First impressions might not be your forte!