I think after FL, Rudy finishes third and it’s a two man race between McCain & Romney. Whether or not the other candidates realize it.
I think you are right, that is why I said to the person that wanted to know how to get rid of McCain, his only option would be if Rudy wins Florida. It is a long shot, but if McCain beats Rudy, I think due to the Super Tuesday primaries, McCain automatically becomes the front runner. If Rudy wins, Rudy has become so weakened, Mitt could still pull it out. But I don't see him doing it if McCain is the front runner.
The dynamics of this race are McCain is taking Rudys votes, just as Huck took Freds, and vice versa. As Fred saw, both he and Huck could not remain viable, and Fred folded first. Same thing with Rudy and McCain, both can not remain viable, and Mitt although he is in the best place right now, only remains there as long as the other candidates are trying to kick the other out. As soon as it is a two man race, in my opinion either Mitt vs McCain, or Mitt vs Rudy that is when people will decide. It is up to Mitt supporters to decide, in Florida, who they would rather go up against either Rudy or McCain, because it won't be both for long.
If Mitt wins Florida, Rudy is still out, but McCain will stay strong.