I have some radical thoughts.
Thought 1: While it is important to put up a fight in NM, ND, and Delaware, Washington and Michigan are key. Perhaps this should be week of sitting back and working the West Coast? I see that area as a strength? Let Clark and Edwards take the heavy shots at Kerry.
Thought 2: Why can't Dean be negative? Not "Jane you ignorant slut" negative, but pointed at policy differences. Dean has higher negatives and has survived them. He can draw distinctions with the other candidates. In South Carolina, he could go negative, take his third place finish, and move out west.
He is somewhat inoculated to more bad press. As long as it isn't crybaby whining, he can do it.
Thought 3: How can Al Gore help you inCalifornia, Washington, and New Mexico?
Assuming Kerry goes for a "shoot the wounded" approach in SC (see Atwater) this could be a positive move.