I am more than happy to discuss the show only here. I have not read the books so I can only be as up to date as S2 E2. That being said I think the Imp is the most skillful and cunning of the people in Kings Landing/Court. I feel there will have to be a monumental death this season that wasn't as obvious as Ned's and frankly is just don't see Lannister SR staying around. His character isn't nearly strong enough or they are going to have him do something monumental. Just a couple of thoughts I had.
One thing the show has shown is that those that rely on smarts prosper and those that rely on power (in battle or in politics fail). Robert, Ned, Jaime, Drogo have all been killed or captured because they weren't smart and fell in love with their own power or perceived power. IMO, the smartest players at this point are Tyrion, Littlefinger, and the Eunuch. The manuvering between the 3 of them should be interesting. I'd put my money on the Eunuch though, he is still the one character who's motives still remain unclear. If knowledge is power as Littlefinger put it, then none is more powerful than the Eunuch. Also, I didn't think Lannister SR was weak- I thought he was one of the most intimidating characters on the show- the way he shut Jaime and Tyrion down was revealing as to the kind of dominant father figure he was. I pray for a scene where Lannister SR meets King Joffrey. I'd love to see that little brat mouth off to Tywin Lannister.