Maybe you don't remember the hell Reagan received, in spades, when he ran. I do remember and it was staggering. It all worked out pretty well for Reagan though. Gingrich is the best communicator of the bunch. If he can remain disciplined and take his message to the people, like Reagan, without relying on the msm, he will do fine.
Polls this far out are absolutely meaningless. Most polls had Carter winning big until the end. I also recall Bob Shrum calling John Kerry "Mr. President" based on exit polling. The campaign is just beginning. Anyone claiming Newt can't win has absolutely no idea what he's talking about.