This is a really over analyzing piece. Rick came out against McCain because he despised how McCain was the chief blocker of the conservative agenda in the Senate. I think many people held their nose in support of Mitt. When I heard Rick later in the primary process he was more against McCain than actually supporting someone else.
Over analyzing continues as if the guy wants to run, we can't automatically assume it is to block Palin. It is also stupid to suggest that a conservative Christian would run to take conservative Christian voters away from Palin so a non Christian can win the nomination.
If the guy wants to run let him. We are the side of ideas and freedom.
Santorium is one of the good guys. He is experienced and has a very strong social conservative record. Yes, he lost in PA, but 2006 was tough on a lot of Republicans, particularly those in blue states.
I think Rick would make a very good candidate and if nothing else, bring proper attention to social conservative issues.