I suspect the latter is true. Remember, Simon was prominently featured in the media during the last few weeks of the primary campaign, since the media hoped Simon would upset Riordan and smooth the road for Davis in the fall. Now that that scenario has played out, the media is acting like Simon doesn't even exist. Simon is probably following the usual GOP playbook - spend big in the last two weeks before the election and try to create the final impression in voters' minds before they enter the booth. I think Davis has too much money for that strategy to work, this time.
I fear this campaign is going to be Clinton vs. Lazio 2000 all over again, with Davis winning by a wide margin despite his huge negatives and Republicans left scratching their heads and wondering why.
Could be, although I'd be hesitant to pick a winner in this race right now.
Just remember that Lazio wasn't even in the race yet at this point back in 2000. And the media here in CA is obviously much more concerned about relevant issues (budget, Oracle, energy crisis, etc.) than the New York media was. Remember when Lazio kicked some Hillary butt (there's no small task) in a debate, and all the media could talk about was how he invaded her space? That victimizing garbage moved the race from a dead heat to a comfortable Clinton lead that Lazio never recovered from.
That said, Lazio still ran a poor campaign. I hope Simon does not follow suit.