I've lived conservative politics since 84. I don't think Obama is a better candidate, I believe Obama is a media product. McCain is a better candidate, he has better ideas, better experience and a better vision for the future.
That said, McCain looked a little off his game. He will be presented as out of touch.
Again, it doesn't matter who answered better, it only matters who will be presented better. Obama will be presented as the winner. He will gain points in the national polls.
It frustrates the heck out of me like it did in 92 when we kept falling in polling but had higher approval ratings but in politics, reality is harsh.