I've done my best to block out the memories, but I do remember how basically every single Republican primary challenger in 2012 had a frontrunner moment, either in the actually polling or just being declared as such by the media.
I'm sure that in 2016 anyone who is willing to go full wingnut will get a lot of attention. Whether that person gets the nod, or the wingnut who snarls just a little less does, I have no idea.