Also, not sure about the precognition that suckuraw would be stabbed. He has grown to the point where he seems to be able to sense ability, so maybe he knew suckuraw would not even make Madara flinch. But, that is more speculation.
I don't like the suckske character and naruto is probably in my top five, but I would say some of this is a little bit of a stretch.
I do think that you might have touch on something. That is that naruto seems more relaxed and contemplative when engaging in these fights. That could be increased confidence. Then again, it could be a slight writing change by Kish to try to push the character more quickly to the "conclusive" end he promised readers.
Naruto & Sasuke both Lead at different times, i think your exaggerating sasuke a bit, "Sasuke was nearly crying?", he was always a cautious person, and very serious at all times, so their was really no point in this thread....