Tom Kenny: Talladega is the big unknown in the Chase. It’s the wildcard of the series. That’s why I love it. I know most of the drivers hate restrictor plate racing, but as a fan, I enjoy it. Do you know why Jimmie Johnson hates Talladega? Because nothing is in his control. Look for him to ride around in back to avoid “The Big One.” As Johnson’s learned in the past, that seemingly safe strategy can backfire.
The Cup title won’t be won this weekend, but it will be a big factor. For argument’s sake, the Chase is a three man race…Johnson, Denny Hamlin and Kevin Harvick.
I also predicted how Johnson will approach Talladega, cautiously. Denny Hamlin isn’t known as a great restrictor plate racer, but he’s better than many people give him credit for…if he avoids the wrecks, he could be there at the end.
Third place driver Kevin Harvick won at Talladega in April. He could really tighten things up with a sweep at the super speedway.
It will be interesting to see what kind of help Harvick gets from teammate Jeff Burton. He really angered Burton the way he drove him at Martinsville last weekend.
I do expect Kyle Busch to help Hamlin if he can. You know “Rowdy” will never lift the entire race and should be a factor upfront…so he could help Hamlin when it’s go time.
On this Halloween weekend, I’m anxious to see just how spooky things get at one of NASCAR’s most competitive tracks.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Tom Kenny
news.com
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