Cruz did more than could be expected of him, but it’s the Republican primary voters who may let us down AGAIN. It’s somewhat like General Lee said of his men: “More was expected of them than they could deliver”.
The Debate Format - the large number of candidates and the bias of the FoxNews moderator team did not allow most of the Debaters to shine. Some it due to just lack of time. Opportune moments came and went without Cruz being allowed to speak. Same for others including Rand Paul and others...
In the time Cruz was allowed to speak - he never stuttered, stammered or faltered... Cruz presented himself as Presidential and knowledgeable and passionate.
This type of debate is just a series of snapshots and the luck of the draw allows one or some to shine brighter than others... Having absolutely nothing to do with the candidates mind or mindset.
I do not even like Rand Paul that much but the circumstance of the debate as described above worked against him...
Jeb Bush on the other hand was given ample opportunities to shine but was dull as a tarnished hubcap...