A local communications professor says the candidates in the vice presidential debate Thursday night did a good job of connecting with the American people, but the debate wasn't as off-the-cuff as she would have liked.

Sacred Heart University professor Jane Carlin says Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin was calm and seemed eager and willing to debate.

As for her Democratic challenger, Joe Biden, Carlin says he was well-versed and demonstrated extensive knowledge of the issues. Carlin also explains that while Palin maintained her ground, Biden eventually went on the offensive.

"His whole face changed and his gentle demeanor seemed to change as well," she says. "I don't know if it was planned. She kept her smile up."

Carlin says both debaters got off easy without having to divulge too many details in their answers.