Week 29 -- Talladega (Chase Round 3)
Still playing catch-up, but I wanted to post my "predictions" for the restrictor plate race before I post my recap of Week 28 at Dover. The race has already happened as I write this, but I can make a few educated guesses as to the outcome.
GLENN'S TEN:
* Jimmie Johnson (winner) -- Coming off his big win at Dover last week, Jimmie could do a back-to-back if he gets the benefit of Hendrick's know-how at the restrictor tracks. Jeff Gordon has owned the plate races the past two seasons, but with his current problems and JJ's need for strong finishes to stay in contention, I think Jimmie will get the breaks and make it to the Winner's Circle for the first time in a plate race.
REST OF THE TOP 10 (in no particular order):
* Rusty Wallace -- Will find a way into the top 10.
* Kurt Busch -- Has had horrible luck the first two races of the Chase. Will turn it around today and could challenge for the win.
* Brian Vickers -- Another Hendrick car that has been good in plate races but hasn't caught a break.
* Ryan Newman -- This has always been a weak spot in the Alltel team's program. I think the pressure of the Chase will see him step it up for a top 10.
* Mark Martin -- Somehow he'll find a way.
* Dale Earnhardt Jr. -- Back with Tony Eury Jr. will make the difference in keeping him up front.
* Michael Waltrip -- DEI doesn't dominate here these days, but don't tell Mikey, who has victory here. All of his four wins have been on plate tracks.
* Greg Biffle -- Roush drivers always a threat to have a big day.
* Tony Stewart -- He'll hang out at the back until the final 20 laps.
ALSO WATCHING: Kasey Kahne and Jeremy Mayfield (Teammates could surprise)... Kyle Busch (Inexperience still might be a factor)... Scott Riggs (#10 often runs well at this track)... Kevin harvick (Which Harvick will show up today? Will his car remain mechanically sound to the finish?)... Jeff Gordon (I didn't quite pick him, but given all his past success here I just can't cast him aside so easily.)
