Doesn’t matter what he would have answered, some on FR would find a way to twist his words to “prove” it was an admission. He said the accusations were “categorically false” and people were complaining that his wording wasn’t convincing enough. He’s better off just ignoring it. The people who believe he did cheat (with no evidence to this point) will still believe no matter what. Anything else he says just gives the sleaze-mongers more ammo...
He has been asked a direct question. Rather than answer it he disparages the question. That is deflection.