I am really surprised this didn't kick up

I see your point in continuing the frame front to rear with similar size square tubing and this should almost act as a full frame under the unibody.
Certainly a benefit to a vehicle driven and launched hard.It would seem that the x member forward would need beefing up accordingly?
The smaller 3 sided or 2"x 2" tubing not so much.

In some cases, yes. Have you looked on the US Car Tool site? Look at their complete chassis stiffening kits and you'll see what all comes in it. It's pretty impressive. Very good stuff for a high horse power car.