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Jr's going to have a rebuilding year, with all the crew switches he's had. It'll probably be mid season before they're as good as they were last year. Jr's a good driver, and can probably make the chase on talent, so he may still have a shot at the title. But I'm going to jump on the bandwagon and be yet another to say this is Hendrick's year. Johnson was near unbeatable near the end of last year, won the shootout this year, and is sitting on the front row at the 500. If he's as good as last year, he'll make the chase again for sure. Same with Gordon. Great driver, he'll be in the chase almost for sure.
I expect Kahne to make the chase too. Last year was a great rookie season, with a full Nextel season's worth of experience, he'll be even better this year. McMurry will be fun to watch this season too. He was awesome the last ten races last year, but didn't get as much attention as he should have because he missed out on the chase. I'm a Newman fan, so of course I'm pulling for him. He'll make the chase, as long as he doesn't get too many DNFs.
As for predictions for the 500, Hendrick is an obviose choice again, with Johnson and Gordon qualifying second and third, and both looking good in the shootout. Biffle looked good in the shootout too. I was very impressed with Newman in the shootout. Even on two tires, he was able to pull off a second place finish. His car seemed to suck up very well, I don't think he'll have any problem running up front. Traditionally he's not very good at plate races, but I think this may be his best shot to win one. I can't wait to see the qualifying races.
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