6 things to keep an eye on in Iowa -- the Republicans

3. Third place could be a charm

Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney lead the pack in Iowa, but third place is still wide open. Finishing third would be an important placement for candidates who haven't made Iowa a focus of their campaign, such as Rudy Giuliani and John McCain. And it may be the only way Fred Thompson can stay in the race.
(AP Photo)
3. Third place could be a charm Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney lead the pack in Iowa, but third place is still wide open. Finishing third would be an important placement for candidates who haven't made Iowa a focus of their campaign, such as Rudy Giuliani and John McCain. And it may be the only way Fred Thompson can stay in the race. PHOTOS 6 things to keep an eye on -- the Democrats DISCUSS What do you see as the key factors?
Text by James Pindell and Jason Tuohey