He wasn't buff enough, and he didn't have a beard.

Near won because he had Gevanni on his side. Gevanni's real name? Chuck Norris.

So? He died because for just a second he let his gaurd down and gave into the feeling of friendship he had for Light. But given more time, he would have figured it out with evidence, Near would not have.

But L died.

**** NEAR'S RAMDOM SUPER HUMAN GUESSING!
Besides, Near even admited that he couldn't have done it one his own.

Yeah, Near would've caught Light.

It's all in the guesses.

That is the only way Near could surpass L. Mello had to use himself as bait, Near on his own never would have caught Light.

Only until the gangsta from an English orphanage dies.

You idolize me, and know that you will never surpass me on your own?

Look at our avatars.