Classic symptoms of a bad ignition system. Could be the spark plug wires and/or spark plugs, ICM, or crank position sensor. Tach all over the place makes me think the crank sensor is going bad. Cruise control code can be expected with the VSS unplugged.
I believe you have proved that a bad VSS isn't causing the engine problem. and I don't think the wiring going to it would. Reconnect the VSS and clear the codes in the diagnostics and see what comes back after driving again. Report them here.