Week 21 — Indianapolis
It still doesn't feel right seeing the gNA$hCAR guys running at the Brickyard, which has long been the domain for the open-wheelers. But this marks the 11th year for this race, which has already seen some historic finishes. Will we be in for another on Sunday, with the nephew of Indy legend Rick Mears on the pole for the second straight week? Let's see what odds I'll give Casey Mears for writing a new chapter in his family's storied racing storybook.
GLENN'S TEN:
* Jeff Gordon (winner) -- Three times just isn't enough for this Hoosier, who last won in 2001. He starts 11th, which is "in the zone" for working his way to the front when it matters.
The rest of the top 10 (in no particular order):
* Ryan Newman -- Picked up to 8th in the points last week after a mostly disastrous day. But this is like a home track for Ryan, who needs a good finish to improve his lock on the top 10.
* Jimmie Johnson -- The points leader is running well everywhere he goes.
* Jamie McMurray -- Contended for the win last year. Watch out for team Gnassi!
* Kasey Kahne -- The Evernham boys are fast, too. If Kasey can keep it off the wall, expect him to be a factor.
* Jeremy Mayfield -- Might just sneak in. Experience pays at Indy.
* Kurt Busch -- Another guy to watch, starting 15th. I almost picked him for the win.
* Dale Jarrett -- Like Gordon, DJ knows how to win at this place, too.
* Matt Kenseth -- So predictable, starting 23rd. But it's not where you start, as the saying goes...
* Tony Stewart -- Check out Tony's commemorative chrome this weekend. Another Indiana driver who has been frustrated at his lack of success here. (Remember the infamous photographer punch-out of 2002...)
MISSING IN ACTION... Casey Mears (will hit the wall at some point)... Dale Burnhardt Jr. (thinks he's well enough to run the full race, but in what position?)... Bill Elliott (part-timer status will hurt)... Kevin Harvick (last year was a fluke)... Bobby Labonte (provisional land after blowing an engine, and it only gets worse. We miss Fatback!).
