Fantasy Nascar Preview (Kansas)

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We are headed to Kansas this weekend. The drivers to beat will be the guys with the fastest cars. Earlier this season Kevin Harvick dominated , but couldn't catch Gordon in the closing laps. In that race , a lot of drivers had misleading finishes. So looking solely at the finishing order is not a wise idea. To set a solid lineup , we should use 2014 data on 1.5 mile racetracks. Also past data from here is just as important. Let get rolling!

1-Jamie Mac: JMac was looking good until he lost a lap at Dover. He was much better then 22nd. Kansas isn't a great track Jamie. Over the past 5 races , JMac have compiled 18.2 average finish , 1 Top 10 , 4 Top 20s , 0 laps led , 1 DNF and 79.1 driver rating. He been a top 15 machine on the 1.5 milers in 2014.

2-Brad Keselowski: Keselowski is like the king of consistency when it comes to running  inside the top 5 at this type track. He won at Vegas , Kentucky and Chicago. Texas , Kansas , Charlotte and Atlanta he should have finished inside the top 5 , but some sort issue prevented it. Over the past 5 races here , BK have compiled 11.0 average finish , 2 Top 10s , 5 Top 20s , 67 laps led and 88.0 driver rating. BK was running inside the top 5 , before an issue occurred and settled for a top 15.

3-Austin Dillon: Dillon was at best average the first time around and finished 19th and posted an 68.8 driver rating. I expect him to finish around the same position this weekend. Maybe a little better.

4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick so many times have dominated this season , but come up short. Dovr he led over 220 laps before blowing a LF tire. Last time at Kansas he led the most laps and finished 2nd. Over the past 5 races here , KH have compiled 6.4 average finish , 1 win , 2 Top 5s , 3 Top 10s , 5 Top 20s , 257 laps led , 2 poles and 113.7 driver rating. Harvick have had a car capable of winning multiple times on this type track in 2014.

5-Kasey Kahne: Kahne seems to be significantly slower then Gordon. Something which doesn't make sense. Especially since they're in the same garage. Anyhow Kansas is probably Kasey best track outside of Charlotte left on the schedule. There are better choices though.

10-Danica Patrick: Last time she was at Kansas , Patrick took the nation by storm with her most respectable performance to date. I do not think she can repeat that. But a top 15 is reasonable to me. As I said before , Danica have performed better on faster racetracks.

11-Denny Hamlin:  Hamlin started off Dover strong , but eventually faded to finished 12th and advanced to Round 2. Kansas is by far not Denny best racetrack. Actually this is probably one his worst tracks left on the schedule. Over the past 4 races here , DH have compiled 13.7 average finish , 1 win , 1 Top 5 , 1 Top 10 , 3 Top 20s , 32 laps led , and 92.9 driver rating. In 12 career starts at Kansas , Hamlin have 3 Top 10s (all were actually top 5s).

16-Greg Biffle: Biffle was eliminated from championship contention after Dover. So here my advice: Just avoid him. He is useless to us. Actually been useless all season outside of a few tracks. There are better choices. In my opinion he is only useable at Talladega in a few weeks. Maybe Texas as well.

18-KyleBusch: Busch scoring a top 5 at Kansas is like the Cleveland Browns winning the Super Bowl. In other words , it seems impossible. Busch career numbers speaks for itself. In 14 career races , KB holds 22.7 average finish , 2 Top 10s , 6 Top 10s(!) and 4 DNFs. Avoid him like the plague , kids.

20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth haven't been great in 2014 , but he is all about consistency. His 5th place finish last week was good , but it will only take him so far in the chase. Dover been a good track though. Over the past 5 races here , MK have compiled 5.4 average finish , 2 wins , 3 Top 5s , 5 Top 10s , 5 Top 10s , 265 laps led , and 116.9 driver rating. Haven't been quite as good after the repave though.

22-Joey Logano: Logano have been impressive on this type racetrack. Fast week in and week out. I have said all year , Penske have a significant edge on the 1.5 milers. So far Team Penske have scored 4 wins. Probably could have sweep the top 5 if issues haven't occurred. Over the past 5 races here , JoLo have compiled 16.2 average finish , 2 Top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 4 Top 20s , 96 laps led , 1 DNF and 88.9 driver rating. On a side note , I think there better tracks to use Logano.

24-Jeff Gordon: Man does Gordon keep on impressing me. I mean 4 wins and counting. It reminds of that magical 2001 season with Stevie L as his crew chief. Gordon comes to Kansas with a lot of momentum on his side. Since the 2012 repave , he been smoking here. Including finishes of 1st and 3rd recently respectively. Over the past 5 races here , JG have compiled 9.6 average finish , 1 win , 2 Top 5s , 3 Top 10s , 4 Top 20s , 11 laps led and 94.6 driver rating.

27-Paul Menard: Menard been good on the Intermediate tracks all season long. Unfortunately it looks like Menard has hit a brick wall recently. Haven't shown much muscle in the chase at all. More importantly looked lost at Chicago and Dover for the most part. It might be a good idea to play wait and see game with P-daddy Menard.

31-Ryan Newman: I was quite surprised how much Newman have struggled recently at Kansas. Over the past 5 races here , RN have compiled 22.0 average finish , 3 Top 20s , 3 laps led , 1 DNF , 78.5 driver rating. In 17 career races , Ryan holds 18.7 average finish , 1 win,  3 Top 5s , 4 Top 10s , and 10 Top 20s. On the positive side , Newman have consistently finished inside the top 15 on this type track in 2014.

42-Kyle Larson: Larson finished 12th and posted a 89.4 driver rating earlier this season. That isn't easy to do as a rookie. Larson I believe can finish up front anywhere. I do believe his best shot to win will be at Texas. The worn out tracks suit him better. But this kid can finish inside the top 5 anywhere. The question is when.

48-Jimmie Johnson: I hinted last week after practice , Johnson wouldn't dominate like we all thought. And that exactly what happened at Dover. Johnson been off all season and the big reason is the packages in the racecars. The 48 haven't quite figured it out yet. Last time at Kansas , Double J struggled somewhat. Over the past 5 races here , Johnson have compiled 6.0 average , 2 Top 5s , 5 Top 10s , 85 laps led and 112.4 driver rating.

88-Dale Jr: Dale Jr finished 17th at Dover. I was puzzled frankly. They aren't that bad. Kansas been a good place for Dale jr lately. Since the repave he been a top 10 machine. Over the past 4 races here , Dale Jr have compiled 9.0 average , 1 Top 5 , 3 Top 10s , 4 Top 20s , 20 laps led and 107.4 driver rating. Dale Jr have been one of the most consistent drivers at this type track in 2014. He won't lead the most lap or qualify up front. But he is a safe pick.

99-Carl Edwards: I wrote the 99 off , after he said something about not being able to pass other cars. Boy did RFR cars look terrible at halfway at Dover. But Cousin Carl found a way to finish 11th. Now on to Kansas. Kansas been a good track to RFR. But 2014 data suggests otherwise. Over the past 5 races here , Edwards have compiled 10.2 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 3 Top 10s , 5 Top 20s , 26 kaps led and 96.9 driver rating. Expect a top 15 out of the 99 at best.

*** All stats from www.driveraverages.com/

Also remember to check out: Nascar Behind The Wall . Great blog for all your Nascar needs.

Twitter - @JeffNathans

Fantasy Nascar Preview (BMS)

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We are at Bristol baby! I absolutely love this track , one of three tracks I haven't ever attended a Cup race at. This is a special track. Its a short half mile layout , with very little move for error. There isn't a lot of racing room. Starting position and track position is huge here. What I like about Bristol is the unpredictable nature. Surviving is 1/2 the battle , trust me.

1-JMac: JMac is a nice option for Bristol. I don't trust him to deliver the product though. He actually been better then his 17.7 career average finish recently. Over the past 5 races ,JMac have complied 18.2 average finish , 2 Top 10s , 4 Top 10s , 10 laps led and 79.3 driver rating. Been inconsistent at short tracks (finish wise).

2-Brad Keselowski: Keselowski have been up and down lately. More specifically since his win at New Hampshire. Don't let that fool you though. He had a car capable of finishing inside the top 5 in just about every race. Bristol been a great track for him as well. Over the past 5 races here , BK have compiled an 15.0 average finish, 1 win , 2 top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 334 laps led and 101.9 driver rating. He finished 14th in March. But was involved a minor wreck late in the event. In 9 career starts , BK holds 14.33 average finish , 2 wins , 3 top 5s , 3 Top 10s , 7 Top 20s , and  449 laps led. Since 2012 ,BK have posted an 14.1 average finish and 1 win on short tracks. That win came at Bristol by the wall.

3-Austin Dillon: Dillon finished 11th in March. Wasn't that good though. Was an 18th-25th place car most of the race. Was able to get some track position late to finish inside the top 15. Dillon is a much improved racer now with experience. He will have a top 20 car , with top 15 upside.

4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick should just call himself , "Mr. Runner up". I bet he finishes second on Saturday night. I will probably leave Harvick off my team this week. I want three starts for the chase. He was freaky fast back in March , until bad luck had to strike late. Over the past 5 races , KH have compiled 22.6 average finish , 3 top 20s , 35 laps led and 90.5 driver rating.

5-Kasey Kahne: Kahne is typically a popular pick at Bristol. But I will pass. Kahne is too inconsistent for my taste. In 2014 , Kahne have only 2 or 3 top 5s so far. Not exactly something I find comforting. Over the past 5 races here , KK have compiled 11.6 average finish , 1 win , 2 top 5s , 4 top 10s , 4 top 20s , 167 laps led and 96.7 driver rating.

10-Danica Patrick: Not really the ideal pick for Bristol. Patrick scares the hell out of on larger tracks. Short tracks could be a nightmare. But hey that just me. Honestly I might roll the dice with Danica this week in Yahoo. She finished 18th in March. Which is solid to me. Especially after starting deep in the field.

11-Denny Hamlin: Hamlin surprised me at Michigan , props to him for making me look stupid.The least I can do is rave on him about his stout Bristol record. Back in March , DH started on the pole and finished solidly in the top 10. Over the past 5 races here, DH have compiled 15.6 average finish , 1 win , 1 Top 5, 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s, 214 laps led , 2 poles , and 98.1 driver rating.

14-?: We really don't know who will be in the 14 car. The early speculation is Jeff Burton will pilot the 14 car. Honestly I think it will be someone else as Burton is semi retired. The big unknown is Smoke. Is Smoke ready to come back? If it was me , I would take the year off to clear my head. But that me. Smoke will come back , only when he feel its right.

15-Clint Bowyer: I don't trust Bowyer. He always good , but never great in 2014. And that the big problem. Bowyer a big time name , so most formats he useless. Because his average overall performances on a weekly basis aren't cutting it. In other words , he doesn't bring enough upside to warrant heavy consideration.

16-Greg Biffle: The Biff finished 10th at Michigan. Not a bad run overall. Bristol is another going track for Biff. Unfortunately he used to be good here. Biff struggled greatly here in March. Used a little pit strategy to get decent track position late. Over the past 5 races here , The Biff have compiled 12.8 average finish , 1 Top 10, 5 Top 20s , 82 laps led and 84.7 driver rating.

18-Kyle Busch: I cannot remember the last time I left Kyle off at Bristol. Don't think I ever have. Well there a first time for everything. Busch been horrible last three races. Its almosted like a script really. Busch so good at Bristol, but he cannot be trusted right now. Over the past 5 races here , Busch have compiled 16.0 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 129 laps led and 86.7 driver rating. In 19 career starts , Rowdy holds 10.8 average finish , 5 wins , 8 Top 5s , 12 Top 10s , 15 Top 20s and 1503 laps led. Busch finished outside the top 20 for only the fourth time in 19 attempts in March.

20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth is one of those guys which never get much attention , unless he is dominating races. Kenseth will likely look average in practice and finish top 10 on Saturday. Back in March , MK had the car to beat. Unfortunately got damaged and finished 13th after leading the most laps. Over the past 5 races here , MK have compiled 15.2 average finish , 1 win , 2 Top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 469 laps led and 111.9 driver rating. In 29 career starts , MK holds 12.5 average finish , 3 wins , 11 Top 5s, 18 Top 10s , 23 Top 20s and 1321 laps led.

22-Joey Logano: JoLo have gotten a second wind after struggling for a stench of races earlier this summer. Logano been fast since Indy. Zero finishes outside the top 6. Logano had a car to win in March , but lost power steering I think. I could be thinking of different race though. Anyhow JoLo been solid at Bristol lately. Over the past 5 here , JoLo have compiled 13.2 average finish , 1Top 5 , 2 Top 10s , 5 Top 20s , 152 laps led and 95.3 driver rating.

24-Jeff Gordon: I have two theories on Gordon. We are back in 1998 or Gordon found the fountain of youth. Either way I am loving the way he is pumping out the points for my fantasy teams. Gordon yet again is my early pick to win. Gordon been very stout in the Bristol summer races. He been solid in the past 5 races at Bristol. Which includes 17.2 , 1Top 10, 3 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 67 laps led, 1 DNF and 101.6 driver rating.

27-Paul Menard: How about some love for old Menard. He been unbelievable on Intermediate tracks (a lot of those coming). Unfortunately haven't been good at short tracks. His only top 10 came at Martinsville (10th finish) in 2014. Even though Menard holds 11.2 average finish and 4 Top 10s in the past 5 races.

31-Ryan Newman: Newman is quietly having a fantastic season. He isn't dominating , but he keep knocking off top 12 finishes. Back in March, Newman finish 16th. Should have finished better , but got a flat tire around halfway. Like his teammate (Menard) , Newman seems to excel on Intermediate racetracks. Short tracks remains a question mark still. As he have posted inconsistent results. Over the past 5 races here , Newman have compiled 18.4 average finish , 1Top 10 , 3 Top 20s , 0 laps led , 1 DNF and 75.5 driver rating.

42-Kyle Larson: Larson finished dead last at Michigan. Had to hurt if you started him. Nevertheless Larson finished 10th last time. Had much better car then that. Larson had a car capable of finishing Top 3. Unfortunately he lost track position on one of the final pit stops. Here or Atlanta been the racetracks I been circling as possible wins for the young rookie. Use him if got it. That my best advice in Yahoo.

48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson been off lately. Things doesn't get any easier for the 6 time Cup Series Champ at Bristol. Bristol haven't been a good track for Double J. Over the past 5 races here , JJ have compiled 17.6 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 96 laps led and 85.6 driver rating. In 25 career starts , JJ holds 15.2 average finish , 2 wins , 7 Top 5s , 13 Top 10s , and 17 Top 20s.

55-Brain Vickers: Not high on Vickers. He is too inconsistent for my taste. He could finish in the top 10 on Saturday night , but I wouldn't count it. Vickers haven't proven he can translate solid practice into solid race results. Despite a solid record here , Vickers is questionable on short tracks in 2014. Inconsistent results make him a somewhat risky pick.

88-Dale Jr: Dale Jr wasn't very good here in March. Never truly contended for a win. Finished outside the top 20 in March. Dealt with a few issues which costed Dale Jr a few laps. Believe he had a tire go down. Over the past 5 races here , he have compiled 13.4 average finish , 2 Top 10s , 4 Top 20s , 47 laps led and 92.5 driver rating.

99-Carl Edwards: Edwards sucked it up at RFR. As I figured he would. As Jack is giving him lesser equipment lately. Especially since Biff haven't locked himself in the chase. Edwards won back in March, but won with some track position late in the race. Edwards is overrated. His 23.8 average finish , 1win , 1 Top 5 , 1 Top 10, 2 Top 20s , 242 laps led , 1 DNF and 79.7 driver rating over the past 5 races back that up. A driver rating is a true teller of a driver's overall performance.

*All stats from www.driveraverages.com/.

Twitter - @JeffNathans

Fantasy Nascar Preview (MIS)

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We are at Michigan this weekend. For those asking , no I won't be attending this weekend race. But my sister will (Yeah I am jealous). Anyhow Michigan isn't your typical oval shape track. Its wide and lengthy for some great racing. Teams always try to stench fuel mileage here. Jimmie Johnson won here last time on fuel mileage. This is a horsepower track. Anything with a chevy (preferably a HMS) engine will be fast. In Yahoo , expect me to be focus on start save. In simpler terms , I will use Michigan to benefit my long term game.

1-Jamie Mac: JMac is a nice sleeper. He was pretty fast earlier this season here. Ran inside the top 15 all day and finish there as well. Over the past 5 races at MIS , JMac have compiled an 19.0 average finish , 3 Top 20s , 26 laps led and 73.7 driver rating.

2-Brad Keselowski: BK is a in a huge slump. Funny that he  consistency shows up with a fast racecar , but cannot match the results. Michigan been a great track in the past for BK. Finish 3rd back in June. He wasn't dominate though. Over the past 5 races here , BK have compiled 8.4 average finish , 2 Top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 5 Top 20s , 41 laps led and 104.3 driver rating. His worst finish is 13th in that span. Since 2012 , Brad holds an 12.2 average finish on similar tracks.

3-Austin Dillon: Dillon best track is Michigan without question. He was really strong back in June. I have 5 starts left and Dillon almost a lock to start. Don't be fooled by his ill finish earlier this season. He was much better then 30th.

4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick is bad fast every single week. Yet people consistency avoid him because of his consistent bad luck. News flash he been the most reliable driver at Intermediate tracks since 2012. Over the past 5 races here , KH have compiled 6.4 average finish , 3 Top 5s , 4 Top 10s , 63 laps led and 103.9 driver rating. No driver been better then stupid freaky fast Harvick recently at MIS.

5-Kasey Kahne: Okay there really no need to even consider to Kahne this week. But I am sure there some bonehead out willing to gamble. Kahne just isn't worth the reward. Since he have only one more lead lap finish then DNFs over his last 5 races at Michigan.

10- Danica Patrick: Patrick actually isn't a horrible choice this week. Michigan is statically her best track. She also finish 18th earlier this season. Which enhances her nice value this week in Yahoo. Expect something like 20th place run out of her. If not more.

11-Denny Hamlin: Hamlin have mightily struggled recently at Michigan. He looked completely lost the first time around. Didn't even finish on the lead lap. JGR cars all had a hard time performing. I expect a improvement , but how much is the question. Over the past 5 races here , DH have compiled 24.8 average finish , 2 Top 20s , 10 laps led and 66.2 driver rating.

14-Tony Stewart: No official word on Smoke weather or not he will be racing at Michigan. So he really a question mark. Anyhow if he races this week , Smoke should be a lock to make my team. Over the 4 past races at Michigan , Smoke have compiled 12.5 average finish , 2 Top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 3 Top 20s , 19 laps led and 92.1 driver rating.

15-Clint Bowyer: To be completely honest , I see no reason to use Clint this week. Or any other week. Bottom line is he doesn't bring enough to the table. Even though his recent stats at MIS are stout. 7.2 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 5 Top 10s ,  20 laps led and 93.1 driver rating over the past 5 races.

16-Greg Biffle: Old Biff have been very reliable as a top 15 option since wrecking at Daytona. In fact , he have an 9.0 average finish since Indy. Never hurt to have some momentum. RFR was horrible earlier this season at Michigan. Its was like watching a bad game of tennis. Expect them to better the second time around though. Over the past 5 races here , The Biff have compiled 7.0 average finish , 2 wins, 3 Top 5s , 4 Top 10s , 140 laps led and 111.1 driver rating.

18-Kyle Busch: I feel for ya if you started Rowdy at the Glenn. Don't make that same mistake in back to back races. Rowdy been a wrecking ball at Michigan recently. Nothing goes right for him it seems. Normally Busch is completely boom or bust at MIS. His below average finish and other stats back that up. 24.2 Average Finish and 1 top 10 in the past 5 races here. In 19 career starts at MiS , Busch have 17.7 average finish, 1 win (.05%) , 4 top 5s (21%) , and 6 top 10s (31%).

20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth is historically one of the best drivers ever at Michigan. Unfortunately majority of his starts came when driving for Roush. He been good with JGR ,but not great. Over the past 5 races here , MK have compiled 11.0 average finish , 1 top 5 , 2 top 10s , 5 top 20s , 24 laps led and 103.8 driver rating. In 30 career starts , MK holds 9.7 average finish , 2 wins, 12 top 5s (40%) , 18 top 10s (60%) and 29 top 20s (97%).

21-Trevor Bayne: Bayne will be moving to Cup Series in 2015. Bayne haven't shown consistency at the larger tracks in a underfunded team. But then again he just a limited scheduled driver too. Bayne won't contend for a top 10 or nothing. Fortunately we aren't looking for that. Anywhere from 18th - 23rd is a good enough in Yahoo. Also it would help if Dillon and Larson have a few mistakes as well. Either way Bayne a nice option in Yahoo. Could be a nice option in Fantasy Live as well. Given he qualifies poorly.

22-Joey Logano: Logano was pretty  strong the first time around. Never was dominated though. Was about a top 10 car and finish there. With 3 starts with Penske , JoLo have a 6.3 average finish and 33 laps led per race (101 in total). He have one win and two 9th place showings. If the trend continues , he should go to VL this week. As his two 9th place finishes were in June.

24-Jeff Gordon: Last week , we said it time and time again. To avoid Jeff Gordon. Well we weren't wrong. Even though he had a dominated racecar to only lose battery power. Gordon is once again my early pick to win. Shouldn't be shocked. He had a awesome car back in June. Much better then 6th place. Which is saying something. Over the past 5 races here , Gordon have compiled 19.2 average finish , 2 top 10s , 3 top 20s , 40 laps led , 2 DNFs and 76.7 driver rating.

27-Paul Menard: Menard is a puzzle to me. After being a great option from Texas to Kentucky , he have cooled big time. The positive is he was strong at Michigan and finish inside the top 5. Also been a consistent finisher at Michigan as well. But I cannot ignored his current slump neither. Over past 5 races here , Menard have compiled 10.6 average finish , 2 top 5s , 3 top 10s , 4 top 10s , 8 laps led and 93.4 driver rating.

31-Ryan Newman: Newman is one of the better individual at Michigan. His career record doesn't look impressive , but he had a pretty good car earlier this season here. Wasn't good as teammate Paul Menard, nevertheless relevant enough to be heavily considered. I am down to 3 starts in Yahoo , and I plan to burn least one more before the chase (if not more).

41-Kurt Busch: Busch doesn't stand out much to me. He been as bad as brother Kyle Busch. Never seemed to fully master this high speed racetrack. His numbers back that. 22.2 Average in the past 5 Michigan races. With only one top 10. In 20 career races, Kurt have 2 wins , 4 top 5s , 9 Top 10s , and 20.9 average finish. Boom or bust really.

42-Kyle Larson: Larson is a phenomena of young drivers. He setting the pace for the  Dillon bros , Trevor Bayne , Chase Elliott , and other young drivers. This kid is already a star as a rookie. Reminds of Kyle Busch in his rookie campaign as a Cup guy. Michigan isn't a track I would want to use him at though. Fuel mileage always seems to be a factor. Let be honest , Larson is typically aggressive with his equipment.

48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson is in a major slump right now. Since his win at Michigan and top 10 at Kentucky , Johnson have zero top 20 finishes. They did the same thing last season. It called testing. Avoid Johnson if possible because I don't think team 48 is done quite yet.

55-Brian Vickers: I am not touching Vickers. You couldn't even pay me $1M. Especially after wrecking on lap 1 last time. Vickers just isn't consistent enough to be a useable option at the moment.

88-Dale Jr: Dale Jr will be a popular pick this week. You can count on it. His stats at Michigan have been consistency good. Dale Jr is having his best season to date. Over the past 5 races here , Dale Jr have compiled 17.0 average finish ,  1 win , 2 top 5 , 3 top 10s , 175 laps led, 1 DNFs , and  106.6 driver rating. Dale finish 7th earlier this season.

99-Carl Edwards: Not high on Edwards this week. Even though I believe Roush as a whole is improving. I also believe Roush is giving Greg Biffle the best equipment. Since Edwards decided he no longer wanted to be a part of the organization.

Twitter - @JeffNathans

Fantasy Nascar Preview (Glenn)

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We are at Watkins Glenn this weekend. One of my favorites racetracks. I live very close to the track , so I will be at the racetrack this weekend (again). Most people assume drivers success automatically translates from Sonoma to Watkins. Unfortunately that is a common mistake. The two road courses are quite different. The only comparable thing is the same type of track. Watkins is longer , faster , and have more difficult turns to conquer.

1-JMac: JMac finished 4th at Sonoma. Don't expect a successful encore from JMac though. Watkins haven't been overly kind to him. Over the past two races here , Jamie have compiled an 25.0 average finish ,0 Top 5 , 0 Top 10, 1 Top 20, 1 lap led and 83.0 driver rating. In 11 races , Jamie Mac holds an 19.45 average finish.

2-Brad Keselowski: I feel for anyone who started BK at Indy or Pocono in limited start leagues. It like getting a nail drilled in your foot. Very painfully to waste such a useable driver like Brad. Brad have had great runs here recently. Over the past two races here , BK have compiled an 2.0 average finish , 2 Top 5s , 2 Top 10s , 37 laps led and 117.1 driver rating. In 4 career races at Watkins , BK holds an 6.75 , 3 Top 5s (75%) , 3 Top 10s (75%) , 4 Top 20 (100%) , and 39 laps led.

3-Austin Dillon: Dillon finish 17th at Sonoma. But is it really worth it? Especially with Dillon having some great tracks coming up. Honestly I wouldn't use him here. This can be a unpredictable track at times. I am eyeing Dillon for Michigan. As he been solid on larger tracks so far.

4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick was bad fast at Sonoma. Had a winning car to top 5 car. But got involved in the JMac/Bowyer deal. Nevertheless I expect him to be bad fast and to be overlooked by most this week. Over the past two races here , Harvick have compiled 14.0 average finish , 2 Top 20s , 8 laps led and 85.4 driver rating. In 13 races , Harvick holds an 13.08 average finish. Harvick is a very underrated road racer.

9-Marcos Ambrose: Ambrose is the first guy that comes to mind at road courses and rightfully so. Back at Sonoma , he wasn't that impressive. Even though he finish top 10 at end of the day. He been better at Watkins then Sonoma in career anyhow. Over past two races here , Ambrose have compiled an 16.0 average finish , 1 win , 1 Top 5 , 1 Top 10 , 59 laps led and 124.3 driver rating. In 6 career races , Ambrose holds an 6.83 average finish and 2 wins. Only once have Ambrose finish outside the top 5. That race was the most recent one held here.

10-Danica Patrick: Danica Patrick killed several fantasy teams over the past few races (not mine). Anyhow she probably your best option this week though. In 2013 , she finished 20th here. Earlier this season , she finished 18th at Sonoma.

14-Tony Stewart: Smoke killed my score at Indy (sort of) and murdered my day at Pocono. But I am trying use my Tony(s) before the chase. As its unlikely for him to make the chase at this rate. So I will likely put him on my team this week. He only have one start since 2012. Which resulted in a 19th. So stats aren't very useful. Just carefully watch him in practice before Saturday morning lockdown.

15-Clint Bowyer: Bowyer have been one of the best road course racers over the past few seasons. He is still underrated though. Evidence of that showed back in Sonoma. Over past two seasons here , Bowyer have compiled 5.0 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 2 Top 10s , and 107.6 driver rating. Since 2012 , Bowyer holds the best average finish of full time drivers (5.2) and 111.9 driver rating (series-best) on road courses.

16-Greg Biffle: Two weeks ago I tabbed The Biff as a sleeper (finished 13th). Same thing at Pocono (finish 5th). Now we are headed to Watkins and he is again a sleeper. Not gonna spend a lot of time on the Biff. Just know since 2012 , he holds an 9.2 average finish on road courses. Which is better then: Jeff Gordon , Marcos Ambrose , Tony Stewart, Brad Keselowski and few other noticeable names. Point being he is extremely underrated.

18-Kyle Busch: Rowdy is one of the best drivers at Watkins. He been extremely strong here. Likely will be a popular pick. He will be fast all weekend long. Over the past two races here , Rowdy have compiled 4.0 average finish , 1 win , 1 Top 5 , 2 Top 10s , 72 laps led and 136.0 driver rating. In 9 career races , Rowdy holds 8.1 average finish and 2 win.

20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth always been a okay road racer , but never good enough to be contender. Earlier this season  at Sonoma , MK day was ended after Dale Jr turn him around. Over the past two races here , Kenseth have compiled 15.5 average finish , 1 Top 10, 1 Top 20, 0 lap led and 83.6 driver rating. In 14 career races , Kenseth holds an 15.57 with 4 Top 10s (28%).

22-Joey Logano: Logano is very underrated. Joey actually is a accomplished road racer. But haven't yet put together a strong run to get some respect. Over the past two races here , JoLo have compiled 19.5 average finish , 1 Top 10 , 1 Top 20, 0 lap led and 78.7 driver rating. I would save him for another week in limited start leagues.

24-Jeff Gordon: After being dominate early in his career at Watkins. Gordon have became VERY overrated. Meaning people don't realize how bad he been here since 2001. In his last 12 races at Watkins , Gordon have only 2 Top 10s (0 Top 5s). Of couse he been bad fast all year and likely will be same at Watkins. Nevertheless I need to see strong practices from the 24 before I give him a slot on my team this week.

27-Paul Menard: Menard is actually been consistent on road courses which would be a surprise to many. In fact , he finished in the top 5 at Sonoma . Since 2012 Menard holds 13.6 average finish on road courses. Menard is better then most would give him credit for.

31-Ryan Newman: Not gonna spend a lot of time on Newman. Newman is middle of the road as a legitimate road racer. He always been good , but never great. Over the past two races here , Newman have compiled 12.5 average finish , 2 Top 20s , 0 laps led and 78.4 driver rating. Since 2012 , Newman holds an 13.8 average finish on road courses.

41-Kurt Busch: Busch is much better at Sonoma then he is at Watkins. Even though he was able to put together a nice run with the 78 last season (top 10). Over the past two races here , Kurt have compiled 20.0 average finish , 1 top 10 , 1 top 20, 0 laps led and 81.4 driver rating. There are better gambles this week.

42-Kyle Larson: Okay let keep it simple. Larson will likely start near the front , look impressive in practice and finish well ahead of any other rookie. The kid is that good. With that being said , he will be more useful at other tracks as well. So I will likely keep him off this week (least in Yahoo).

47-Aj Dinger: I am still feeling bitter towards Dale Jr. After he turn the Dinger on a restart at Sonoma. Nevertheless Aj had a top 5 car and easily led the most laps in that race. He finish top 10 last year here. Dinger could be a terrific sleeper for Sunday race.

48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson is actually overlooked at road courses. Surprising he been very effective as a fantasy pick. Unfortunately he is in a major slump at the moment. Since his win at Michigan , there been nothing but bad luck. 4 Finishes outside the top 35. You cannot use him right now. Even though his average finish on road courses since 2012 is 6.4 (2nd best among full time drivers).

51-Justin Alliager: The only rookie I would consider using in Yahoo. Mainly because his solid record in the NNS on road courses. Sadly he was a disappointment at Sonoma in June. Practice will likely tell weather or not roster worthy for Sunday race.

78-Martin Truex Jr: MT Jr had some great runs at the road courses races. Including an solid run earlier this season at Sonoma. His inconsistent runs in 2014 drag down his value though. Carefully watch Truex in practice on Friday before lockdown.

99-Carl Edwards: Edwards won earlier this season at Sonoma. I still think he be overlooked , even after posting a win at Sonoma. Over the past two races here , Edwards have compiled 9.0 average finish , 1 Top 5 , 1 Top 10, 2 Top 20s , 1 lap led and 98.6 driver rating. Since 2012 , Edwards holds 8.6 average finish and 1 win.

Twitter - @JeffNathans

Thanks for reading

Jeff Nathans

Fantasy Nascar Sleepers & Busts

Welcome to TimersSports

We are at Pocono this weekend. For some reason , I always score poorly at the first race and blast a monster score out of the park in the second race. You could say I am Kasey Kahne 2.0 at this racetrack. Its difficult to consistent score well here. Its the tricky triangle for a reason. Drivers and fantasy players needs to be on their toes during the race. Going with relatively safe lineup should be the way to go. But throwing in a sleeper or two is always intriguing at an place such as Pocono.

Sleepers-

Kasey Kahne: Kahne was one of the guys I said to watch out for last week to several people who asked for a sleeper via email/twitter. He finish 6th. He is risk/reward type guy. Kahne won't dominate , but he will have a shot at win regardless. I love what I saw last weekend. Also Kahne has finishes of 1st and 2nd (August Pocono races) since 2012.

Kyle Busch: Surprised?  Shouldn't be. He made my sleeper list at Kentucky , New Hampshire and Indianapolis. What those tracks in common? He finish 2nd in each race. I might make it number 4 on Sunday. His Pocono record is pretty solid. Busch finish 12th earlier this season. I bet he improves.

Kevin Harvick: Harvick is undervalued. He been a threat to get a pole almost every week. No excuse for leaving him off your team in Yahoo. 4 Pole in 20 races. That is 5% of all poles. Impressive. His percentage is pretty low in Yahoo , too. Less then 20% right now. Also it should be noticed that Harvick was stupid fast all weekend back in June. Do you recall where he started? 4th. I know where I am putting my money.

Busts -

Tony Stewart: Smoke haven't impressed me in 2014. I thought for sure he would heat up after at Dover. But haven't yet. Indianapolis was the breaking point for me. Luckily I haven't used too many Smoke starts after 20 races. His Pocono record is stout , but same thing can be said about his Indy record though. I will put "The Smoke project 2014" on hold for a few weeks. See how things unfold.

Danica Patrick: Two flats (2.5 mile in length). Results? Outside the top 40. Do I need to say anymore? Don't think so. Danica isn't worth the gamble. Not even in Yahoo. Save her for Michigan , The glenn or Bristol. Tracks she have had solid results on (or significant good runs). Her percentage is much too high in multiple formats so far this week. Expect the worse case possible with Danica.

Denny Hamlin: Not so much a bust , rather then a risky gamble. With the latest news of CC Grubbs being suspended. He will appeal it though. Some people think it shouldn't be a issue. I vastly disagree. A Crew Chief is more then a guy who sit on a pit box. He makes those gut wrenching calls that win or finish in the top 5. At Pocono pit strategy is critical. I don't feel confident in him.

Twitter: @Gbriggs12