I think this will entail a lot of strong give and take early with Ryan trying to avoid coming off as the super-wonk that he is and Joe showing off some of his old Foreign Policy creds.

But 90 minutes is an eternity when you are in the ring; ever put on boxing gloves and trying to go ten rounds?

Remember, Joe is not disciplined; Paul is disciplined. Joe is 68 years old and not in great health; Paul is 42 and works out every day. The night will wear on Joe.

I think they start with Foreign Policy and Security, because that’s Martha’s strong suit; that means a strong finish for Ryan, just when Joe is getting a little weary.

GM is alive and Osama is dead, but so are four Americans, including two SEALs and an Ambassador, not to mention the entire City of Detroit. That will hang like an albatross on Joe’s neck.

Joe will have to choose; avuncular or attack dog? His base wants the attack dog but the Independents (with whom Obam is doing quite poorly) want avuncular. Your guess is as good as mine.

I say Ryan edges him and neither side score a full knockout, probably not even a knockdown. But if there is one, it will be near the end when Joe is out of canned stuff and is looking for the exit sign.