Yes, and I think Cruz could be hurt more because every candidate will go after him at debate. He could come out unscathed, but he will probably be hurt by it more than Trump.
With high risk comes high reward. This is a great opportunity for Cruz, and I agree with you, him being THE target on stage creates some risk. Trial by fire, that's the point of the debates.
Not likely.
Rubio has mastered the rapid fire format of these pseudo debates and left Cruz bleeding in the alley last time.
All the candidates and the mods will now dial in on Cruz.
I don't believe Fox will go out of their way to highlight Trump's absence and may be precluded from doing so by RNC rules.
They will likely hold the debate as if Trump never existed.
This format is nothing like a real collegiate debate and Cruz has shown he is far to long-winded and circumspect to compete effectively.
Rhetorical flourish and detailed, verbose responses do not serve him well. It's like bringing a Dr. Seuss book to a dog fight.
Actually this will give all the other candidates the opportunity to attack Trump, but Trump won't be there to defend himself.