The best strategy for a candidate who will not make it into the top 10 is probably to put his or her marbles on the CNN debate. While it may be a little sad to be at the kids’ table—called Segment A in the CNN rules—there is a way to take advantage of your lot. First, anything you say that challenges the candidates in the main debate—called Segment B and which will immediately follow the second-tier forum—will probably be discussed in that debate. It’s in CNN’s interest to keep the drama going between the two debates because it makes for better television. It also makes their first hour seem relevant and not just a booby prize. 

That wouldn’t be hard for a candidate to do since it’s easy to pose questions that are tough on your competitors. Sen. Lindsay Graham, who may not make the cut, has some fastballs I’m sure he could put to Sen. Rand Paul on the issue of foreign policy. Carly Fiorina could ask questions of the senators who want to be hired for the ultimate executive position without ever having run anything. Rick Santorum has peppery things to say about how the GOP is the party of the boardroom and not the regular guy. 

This could also make for better debates because it might sharpen distinctions and get people talking. A candidate who makes it in the top 10 for those first few debates will try to be risk-averse, using the moment to offer platitudes and look pleasing, which is pretty much what they try to do in these early contests.