Race 1 of The Chase

So my picks and the guys I like were running well all day....but that doesn't necessarily equate to a good points finish.

Stewart ran out of gas, but he ran so well, I am not counting him out.

Bowyer has that all important momentum and for a guy who is very consistent, look out for this wild card. We saw him start this way three years ago and Biffle started even better two years ago, but The Chase is a grind, and so we really can't pick a top 5 until after 3-4 races.

I still like Gordon, Edwards, and Bush (Kyle)....because of their ability to turn bad days into good ones, and good ones into top 5's. Although I do feel as though you will have to win a race or 2-3 to win The Chase and in the past this has proven true, because this year's Chase field is so even at the start, with all that parity, this may just be the year someone wins without a win....and the two of my three picks have proven that they are great points racers.

So onto Dover and The Monster Mile. Who do you like?

I'm sticking with my three picks (Bush, Gordon, Edwards) and the two that I want to see do well (Bowyer, Smoke). Everyone says that we must get through three races before looking at the picture and I agree. At this point you can't count out JJ, but let's be honest, the mojo/luck isn't there this year and other drivers are racing him A LOT harder.

It has been rough/aggressive and the racing will get even more so. Patience and an even keel like Hamlin displayed last week will help the eventual winner win a championship.

P.Gooz, PaulGozzo, www.PaulGozzo.com