Republican McCain's disdain for the Democrat came through several times in Nashville -- at one point he referred to Obama as "that one." In contrast to McCain's fire, Obama came across as a rather cool customer, though he often appeared frustrated that he was unable to respond to McCain's attacks because of the limits of the town hall format.

Both men covered familiar territory, but McCain did make news: He said as president he would order the Treasury to buy up bad house loans so people could stay in their homes.

Obama stressed he represented "change."

"We need fundamental change, that's what's at stake in this election," Obama said. "That's the reason I decided to run for president and I'm hopeful that all of you are prepared to continue this extraordinary journey that we call America -- but we're going to have to have the courage and the sacrifice, the nerve to move in a new direction."

McCain stressed his experience and "a steady hand on the tiller."

"I have spent my whole life serving this country," he said, adding later, "I believe in this country ... It's been my great honor to serve it for many, many years, and I'm asking the American people to give me another opportunity -- and I'll rest on my record, but I'll also tell you that times are tough. We need a steady hand at the tiller, and the great honor of my life was to always put my country first."

The next debate is scheduled for Oct. 15 in New York.