All the drama and excitment that is part of Speedweeks gave us a taste of the big show.
We saw Jeff Gordon return to victory lane by winning the first Gatorade 150. Hours and hours of Daytona practice coverage on SPEED TV. All the pundits have had their say. All the drivers have answered endless questions. Now, Grumpy will look at the ones who could win the Harley Earl Trophy. Unlike last season, I am just looking at the 500.
Jeff Gordon: Has his mojo back. Hard to bet against any Hendrick driver. His confidence is showing. He has all the ingredients to make it to Victory Lane. Maybe the new black paint will change his fortunes.
Mark Martin: Possibly America’s sentimental favorite. He is a racer to the bone. At age 50 he is as fit as most driver half his age. The guy has class too. Who knows what he could have achieved if he had left Roush 5 years sooner than he did. Martin would not wreck anybody to gain a win.
Kyle Bush: Put the black hat on this dude. It is a role he clearly enjoys. He has the talent to back up his swagger. The ‘08 season proved he can deliver the goods. Won the second Duel 150 on Thursday. The cup light race today proved he is willing to wreck a guy for the win.
Tony Stewart: The newly minted owner/driver has a bigger hill to climb. During the final practice session, the #39 driven by Ryan Newman had a tire failure with Tony right behind. Both cars were damaged beyond repair. Both drivers will have to start in the rear of the field in back up cars. Smoke won the cup light event driving an entry from Hendrick/JR Mortorsports.
Bill Elliott: Got a lot of well deserved recognition during qualifying. Would have started well in the 500. A failed tranny during the Duel 150 put him deep in the field for the 500. Certainly a fan favorite along with Mark Martin, Elliott will only run about 12 races for the Wood Bros.
Carl Edwards:Like most of the Roush-Sox teams, Cousin Carl is just out there doing his thing. He is not calling attention to himself, nor is he hiding. Don’t overlook his ‘awe shucks’ demeanor.
Kevin Harvick: The ‘07 Daytona 500 winner opened Speedweeks with a win in the Bud Shootout. Backed by Richard Childress Racing, he is a player.
Grumpy’s pick: The dark horse has to be Smoke. Who else would Grumpy pick? The sports books likely will pick Gordon. Like your local weatherman, if my pick fails, I will have a good explanation on Monday.
Enjoy the race!
Post a Comment