The GOP is still deeply infected with Trumpism, and it is unlikely that someone like Mike Pence, who is despised by many Trump supporters, has any chance of winning the primary. Though he is a more "traditional conservative," his views will be put to the test as he tries to distance himself from Trump, while also appealing to Trump's base.
Mike Pence is a solid candidate for the Republican nomination, as he has years of experience and possesses strong conservative values. Though Trump is certainly doing well in the polls, Pence, as well as some of the other contenders like Ron DeSantis or Nikki Haley, would also be good choices to lead the country.
Pence simply does not stand a chance against Trump, who made Pence's career in the first place by making him vice president. Though Pence has proven that he is ready to tackle America's problems like Trump, he ultimately does not have the same flair as the former President. America doesn't want a typical Republican who will try to use the president's name to garner support.