“Evaluating, as an opponent … or a hint to "fitting" the answers to the italicized clues into the grid”

Take a quick turn

Sound from a monitor

One who's definitely not being invited to the party

Letters indicating a texter's P.O.V.

Fried side dish with catfish, perhaps

Cough drop brand whose name is yodeled in its commercials

Mafia members, e.g.

Gave a talking to?

Tiptoed, say