Ryan probably sees himself as Boehner 's logical successor as Speaker. He wouldn't be crazy to feel that way. He can count. The Tea Party caucus is important, but it isn't a majority of the overall republican caucus. So he can defy them if it means he appeals to the midwestern and northeastern RINOs. Plus, he gets the corporate money that comes from playing ball and not pushing conservative positions too hard.
It is no secret here that I have a very low opinion of Ryan. I see a limited guy with a huge ego based on...what? He came up with a some idiotic plans for the budget and entitlements that screwed important elements of the republican base, plus had no chance of getting passed. He got his ass handed to him by that buffoon Biden in the VP debate. He was so far out of his depth he needed a lifeguard.