Welcome to TimersSports
Pocono in my personal opinion is one of the most boring races on the schedule! Your typical Pocono race will consist of: Long green flag runs, limited passing and crazy fuel strategy.
This weekend you will want a combination of big time names and sleepers in your fantasy lineups. However I wouldn't get too crazy with my lineups though. From experience, I can tell you getting too fancy will come back and bite you!
Yahoo -
A:
Start: Kevin Harvick
Bench: Denny Hamlin
Explanation - Not really much of a debate. Harvick been the best driver in everything this weekend. He swept all three practices and start 5th. With only 26% selecting him, he becomes a super value play IMO.
B:
Start: Kurt Busch, Carl Edwards
Bench: Kyle Larson , Kasey Kahne
Explanation - I been planning for weeks to start Busch at Pocono. Him winning the pole set that action in stone. It helped that he posted a solid pair of practice. I was set on Larson, but Instead going Edwards. Why? I feel like Larson will be useful on more predictable tracks. Plus Edwards was little better overall IMO.
C:
Start: Danica Patrick
Bench: David Ragan
Explanation - This grouping tier is pretty weak overall. Danica been the best driver consistently in practice. Not even gonna try to get fancy and use Ragan.
Fantasy Live - 4,41,78,13,10
Sleeper Pick - Austin Dillon
Race Winner - Kevin Harvick
Twitter - @Garryy12
Monday, June 01, 2015
Fantasy Nascar Early Rankings (Pocono)
Welcome to TimersSports
Early Ranks -
1. Kevin Harvick
2. Jimmie Johnson
3. Dale Jr
4. Kurt Busch
5. Denny Hamlin
6. Jeff Gordon
7. Joey Logano
8. Brad Keselowski
9. Clint Bowyer
10. Kyle Busch
11. Tony Stewart
12. Ryan Newman
13. Kasey Kahne
14. Paul Menard
15. Kyle Larson
16. Martin Truex Jr
17. Carl Edwards
18. Matt Kenseth
19. Jamie McMurray
20. Greg Biffle
21. David Ragan
22. Austin Dillon
23. Aric Almirola
24. Danica Patrick
25. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
26. Casey Mears
27. Justin Allagier
28. Ty Dillon
29. AJ Dinger
30. Trevor Bayne
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Early Ranks -
1. Kevin Harvick
2. Jimmie Johnson
3. Dale Jr
4. Kurt Busch
5. Denny Hamlin
6. Jeff Gordon
7. Joey Logano
8. Brad Keselowski
9. Clint Bowyer
10. Kyle Busch
11. Tony Stewart
12. Ryan Newman
13. Kasey Kahne
14. Paul Menard
15. Kyle Larson
16. Martin Truex Jr
17. Carl Edwards
18. Matt Kenseth
19. Jamie McMurray
20. Greg Biffle
21. David Ragan
22. Austin Dillon
23. Aric Almirola
24. Danica Patrick
25. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
26. Casey Mears
27. Justin Allagier
28. Ty Dillon
29. AJ Dinger
30. Trevor Bayne
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Fantasy Nascar Preview (Pocono)
Welcome to TimersSports
We are headed to Pocono this weekend! The most unique racetrack on the schedule in my opinion! Pocono only have three turns. All three turns are different which make getting your car 100% perfect nearly impossible. The key is for teams to find a equal balance among the turns.
Usually the powerhouses (Hendrick, Haas, Penske, Gibbs,etc) dominate this race. This racetrack require a lot of speed as cars will rocket around the 2.5-mile racetrack. The huge downside to tracks like this is the fastest cars usually don't win! This weekend you would want load up on the powerhouses, but don't be afraid to add a few dark horses to your lineups.
1-Jamie McMurray: JMac is coming off an top 10 at Dover! He may go under the radar at Pocono though. Last season he posted finishes of 7th and 10th. Over his past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 11.5 average finish, 15.0 average start, 15.5 average running position, and 84.7 driver rating. Those are some really reliable numbers! Historically speaking he been hit or miss though! In 19 career starts, he only have an 19.7 average finish with 6 Top 10s. However he have finished 17th or better in 6 straight Pocono races.
2-Brad Keselowski: Penske was considerably off at Dover. Kinda wonder if that was a fluke or not. Last season he finished 23rd and 2nd. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, BK have compiled 11.8 average finish, 6.8 average start, 8.8 average running position, 113 laps led and 108.4 driver rating. Those are pretty solid numbers since the repave. He been decent from a career point of view too. In 10 career starts, he holds an 13.4 average finish with 4 Top 10s. Including 4 Top 6s in his past 7 races (since 2011). More noticeably, he have finished inside the top 4 in 3 of those 4 races.
3-Austin Dillon: I am not gonna spend a lot of time on Dillon as it tough to get a good read on Dillon's fantasy value before practice and qualifying. He have shown a lot more speed lately which might make him a sneaky play. Last season he posted finishes of 15th and 17th. Also posted 19.5 average running position and 79.4 driver rating. So not like he lucked into those finishes. Honestly Dillon he seems to have a knack for running well at larger tracks such as Michigan and Pocono.
4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick is my early pick to win. Last season he stood out to me as one of the best driver here. He posted 8.0 average finish and 10.0 average running position with 112.5 driver rating. His numbers would be better if he didn't go a lap down in the first race last season after a blown tire. He been one of the most consistent drivers at Pocono. In 16 of his past 20 races (dating back to 2005) , he have finished 15th or better. Including 9 of those races resulting inside the top 10. He haven't been the best driver since the repave, but probably will be a heavy favorite after practice and qualifying though.
5-Kasey Kahne: Kasey is Pocono best kept secret (or worst kept secret). This is a very good track for him. However he been pretty bi-polar between the first and second Pocono races. Over the past 3 seasons (6 races), Kahne have wheeled off 3 Top 10s (2 Top 5s, including a win). Unfortunately all three of those results have came in the August's race. Kasey, June and Pocono don't belong in the same sentence! His finishes are as followed: 42,36 and 29. He have ran well in the June race, but haven't gotten the results. This is a trend however though. Meaning it pretty much worthless unless it continue. Kinda the side affect of trends, we cannot put too much into. But we cannot ignore them either. Either way Kahne should have a fast car!
10-Danica Patrick: Patrick have ran well at Pocono, but haven't gotten the results to show for it though. I always have said places like this are where she will succeed at. I like Danica a lot this week, but I have a feeling she will disappoint somehow though. She posted terrible results last season of 30th and 37th. However qualified and competitively ran well in both races. Really hard to say how Danica will do at Pocono. SHR should give her a car capable of running inside the top 20 this week.
11-Denny Hamlin: I was convinced snippers had a bulleye on the Joe Gibbs Racing cars. Glad I didn't bet on any of them at Dover. Pocono was at one time a personal playground for Hamlin. I think he back to his old self on the flat tracks. Pocono remains a very good track for Hamlin. I usually throw away 2013 season data for Hamlin as that was a weird year for him. Last season he posted finishes of 9th and 4th. While posting 9.5 average running position and 102.2 driver rating. Those are very good stats in a down year. JGR is way better off than last season and I think Hamlin gonna deliver a big-time finish. Historically speaking, Hamlin been stout. In 18 career starts, he have held 11.9 average finish with 12 Top 10s. Including 9 Top 5 and 4 wins. Only two top 5 since 2012 though.
16-Greg Biffle: Biffle have shown improvements recently, but I am not convinced RFR is back. At best, RFR is clinging onto relevancy! Honestly I don't like Biff much this week. Sure he finished 5th and 16th last season. But he held 17.5 average running position and 78.8 driver rating. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 8.3 average finish, 14.5 average start, 14.3 average running position, and 87.5 driver rating. Those aren't terrible numbers, but I am still not ready to jump on the Biffle bandwagon. There too many unknowns with this organization to be trusted!
18-Kyle Busch: Busch have been super competitive since returning from injury. Pocono have been a decent track for him too. I wouldn't call it great though. He posted finishes of 12th and 42nd last season. His 42nd place finish was a soared engine. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, Rowdy have compiled 21.6 average finish, 6.8 average start, 20.2 average running position, and 77.5 driver rating. Those are pretty average numbers. He been much better than that though. In 3 of those 6 races, he have either wrecked out or had a mechanical issue. In the other 3 races? He have compiled 8.7 average finish with 10.0 average running position and 98.5 driver rating. There probably better options than Rowdy this week though.
19-Carl Edwards: Heading into Dover, one of my biggest concerns was Carl Edwards. What does he go out and do? He speed twice on pit road. However I believe this will put him off most people radars at Pocono. Last season he struggled with finishes of 29th and 42nd. Those are terrible finishes, but he wasn't that bad though. Before last season? He wheeled off 4 of the previous 5 races inside the top 11. His other finish was 18th. I believe Edwards will be undervalued this week.
20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth isn't a great pick this weekend. Pocono always been an average track for him. Over his past 4 starts at Pocono, he have compiled 27.5 average finish, 18.0 average start, 19.8 average running position, and 71.1 driver rating. In 30 career starts, Matt have only 10 Top 10 finishes with 16.1 average finish. He have finished 5 straight races at Pocono outside the top 20. Over his past 16 starts, Kenseth only have 4 Top 10 finishes. So he is basically averaging a top 10 finish every 4 races.
22-Joey Logano: Logano and Team Penske seem to have fallen off the map lately. Performance wise they've been decent, but decent isn't gonna cut it. Logano should make a okay option this week though. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 15.0 average finish, 9.0 average start, 10.5 average running position and 97.7 driver rating. Since the repave (6 races) , Logano have been one of the best in the series. Minus last June race, he have slapped together an impressive 6.8 average finish (series-best) with 10.6 average running position and 103.3 driver rating. Don't sleep on Logano, as he could pack quite a punch as a fantasy option.
24-Jeff Gordon: Gordon is a good sleeper for this weekend race. He is a 6-time winner and won success here recently. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 7.0 average finish, 10.8 average start, 8.3 average running position, 72 laps led and 113.6 driver rating. I wouldn't call Gordon a must-have or even a legitimate fantasy option. However he always seems to run well here for whatever reason. Even in down years like '09,'10,'12 and '13. All seasons he struggled to find wins, he ran well here.
27-Paul Menard: Menard is a hidden value-play this weekend. His stats don't show it, but he been a legitimate top 15 option. And he is running significantly better with his new crew chief. Mark my words, Menard will contend for another top 10 this weekend. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 30.3 average finish, 20.5 average start, 21.3 average running position and 63.7 driver rating. Very ugly numbers, but he was competitively running near or inside the top 15 when he had issues in all 4 races. Before he have had that stench of bad luck? He finished 6 straight races inside the top 16. Actually he wheeled off 5 Straight finishes of 14th or better from 2010 to 2012. More impressively had 3 straight Top 11 before landing in the shitter at Pocono!
31-Ryan Newman: Newman is one of the most underrated options at Pocono. Least this weekend that is. Pocono is a very great racetrack for him. I think it have something to do with the fishing. And he love fishing on the water! Over the past 4 races here, he have compiled 6.0 average finish, 15.8 average start, 13.0 average running position, 21 laps led and 95.3 driver rating. Last time finished outside the top 20? 2005. Which is 20 races ago! Last time he finished worse than 15th? 2008. In fact, he finished 9 straight races inside the top 12. Including 7 Top 10s in the past 9 races. Not many drivers have the consistent thing down at Pocono like Newman!
41-Kurt Busch: I have had this Pocono racetrack circled twice for Kurt Busch! His performance last June still stand out to me. He had one of the strongest cars in the field and that was in a down year. I have high hopes for him this weekend. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 6.5 average finish, 7.8 average start, 7.5 average running position, 44 laps led and 114.3 driver rating. Those are very good numbers, but he been even better recently. Over his past 7 races here, Busch have knocked off 4 finishes of 3rd or better. Historically speaking, he have held an 14.7 average finish with 11 Top 5s and 15 Top 10s in 27 races.
42-Kyle Larson: Kyle Larson may be on to something lately. He definitely have shown more speed lately and at Dover it all came together for the 2nd-year driver. What stood out most how strong he was last weekend. Not only in the race, but in practice too. Hopefully that continue at another good racetrack for him. Pocono is definitely a track he can have success at. Last season he posted an 8.0 average finish, 7.5 average start, 12.5 average running position and 95.7 driver rating. Hard judging Larson since we have little season data, but I am fairly high on him.
48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson coming off Dover with a win and now goes to another great racetrack. I am not gonna spend a lot of time on Johnson, but he have a strong track record here. In 27 career starts, Johnson have an 9.9 average finish with 3 wins. Including 6 Top 6 finishes in his past 10 races at this racetrack! Over his past 4 races here, he have compiled 14.8 average finish, 9.8 average start, 13.3 average running position, 176 laps led and 103.3 driver rating. I think Johnson is very beatable this weekend, but also believe he may put laps around the field. So kinda risk vs reward.
78-Martin Truex Jr: Truex have ran very well this season! He have finished inside the top 10 in 12 of 13 races this season. Unfortunately this isn't a great track for him from a career point of view. In 18 career starts, he have finished only 6 of those races inside the top 10. I think Truex will make a fine fantasy option, but I wouldn't expect anything super special though. He did finish 9th last June though.
88-Dale Jr: Dale Earnhardt Jr will be one of the more popular fantasy options this weekend. I don't think he will sweep Pocono again, but hard to argue against his results since 2012. In the past 6 races, he have compiled 8.3 average finish, 10.7 average start, 7.8 average running position, 80 laps led and 117.5 driver rating. Some people say he is a must-have, but I disagree. He probably the most reliable option, but I think there a few drivers with more upside.
*All stats from DriverAverages.com & FantasyRacingCheatSheet
Also remember to check out Nascar Behind The Wall for all your weekly Nascar needs. From schedules to Race previews.
Email - JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
We are headed to Pocono this weekend! The most unique racetrack on the schedule in my opinion! Pocono only have three turns. All three turns are different which make getting your car 100% perfect nearly impossible. The key is for teams to find a equal balance among the turns.
Usually the powerhouses (Hendrick, Haas, Penske, Gibbs,etc) dominate this race. This racetrack require a lot of speed as cars will rocket around the 2.5-mile racetrack. The huge downside to tracks like this is the fastest cars usually don't win! This weekend you would want load up on the powerhouses, but don't be afraid to add a few dark horses to your lineups.
1-Jamie McMurray: JMac is coming off an top 10 at Dover! He may go under the radar at Pocono though. Last season he posted finishes of 7th and 10th. Over his past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 11.5 average finish, 15.0 average start, 15.5 average running position, and 84.7 driver rating. Those are some really reliable numbers! Historically speaking he been hit or miss though! In 19 career starts, he only have an 19.7 average finish with 6 Top 10s. However he have finished 17th or better in 6 straight Pocono races.
2-Brad Keselowski: Penske was considerably off at Dover. Kinda wonder if that was a fluke or not. Last season he finished 23rd and 2nd. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, BK have compiled 11.8 average finish, 6.8 average start, 8.8 average running position, 113 laps led and 108.4 driver rating. Those are pretty solid numbers since the repave. He been decent from a career point of view too. In 10 career starts, he holds an 13.4 average finish with 4 Top 10s. Including 4 Top 6s in his past 7 races (since 2011). More noticeably, he have finished inside the top 4 in 3 of those 4 races.
3-Austin Dillon: I am not gonna spend a lot of time on Dillon as it tough to get a good read on Dillon's fantasy value before practice and qualifying. He have shown a lot more speed lately which might make him a sneaky play. Last season he posted finishes of 15th and 17th. Also posted 19.5 average running position and 79.4 driver rating. So not like he lucked into those finishes. Honestly Dillon he seems to have a knack for running well at larger tracks such as Michigan and Pocono.
4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick is my early pick to win. Last season he stood out to me as one of the best driver here. He posted 8.0 average finish and 10.0 average running position with 112.5 driver rating. His numbers would be better if he didn't go a lap down in the first race last season after a blown tire. He been one of the most consistent drivers at Pocono. In 16 of his past 20 races (dating back to 2005) , he have finished 15th or better. Including 9 of those races resulting inside the top 10. He haven't been the best driver since the repave, but probably will be a heavy favorite after practice and qualifying though.
5-Kasey Kahne: Kasey is Pocono best kept secret (or worst kept secret). This is a very good track for him. However he been pretty bi-polar between the first and second Pocono races. Over the past 3 seasons (6 races), Kahne have wheeled off 3 Top 10s (2 Top 5s, including a win). Unfortunately all three of those results have came in the August's race. Kasey, June and Pocono don't belong in the same sentence! His finishes are as followed: 42,36 and 29. He have ran well in the June race, but haven't gotten the results. This is a trend however though. Meaning it pretty much worthless unless it continue. Kinda the side affect of trends, we cannot put too much into. But we cannot ignore them either. Either way Kahne should have a fast car!
10-Danica Patrick: Patrick have ran well at Pocono, but haven't gotten the results to show for it though. I always have said places like this are where she will succeed at. I like Danica a lot this week, but I have a feeling she will disappoint somehow though. She posted terrible results last season of 30th and 37th. However qualified and competitively ran well in both races. Really hard to say how Danica will do at Pocono. SHR should give her a car capable of running inside the top 20 this week.
11-Denny Hamlin: I was convinced snippers had a bulleye on the Joe Gibbs Racing cars. Glad I didn't bet on any of them at Dover. Pocono was at one time a personal playground for Hamlin. I think he back to his old self on the flat tracks. Pocono remains a very good track for Hamlin. I usually throw away 2013 season data for Hamlin as that was a weird year for him. Last season he posted finishes of 9th and 4th. While posting 9.5 average running position and 102.2 driver rating. Those are very good stats in a down year. JGR is way better off than last season and I think Hamlin gonna deliver a big-time finish. Historically speaking, Hamlin been stout. In 18 career starts, he have held 11.9 average finish with 12 Top 10s. Including 9 Top 5 and 4 wins. Only two top 5 since 2012 though.
16-Greg Biffle: Biffle have shown improvements recently, but I am not convinced RFR is back. At best, RFR is clinging onto relevancy! Honestly I don't like Biff much this week. Sure he finished 5th and 16th last season. But he held 17.5 average running position and 78.8 driver rating. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 8.3 average finish, 14.5 average start, 14.3 average running position, and 87.5 driver rating. Those aren't terrible numbers, but I am still not ready to jump on the Biffle bandwagon. There too many unknowns with this organization to be trusted!
18-Kyle Busch: Busch have been super competitive since returning from injury. Pocono have been a decent track for him too. I wouldn't call it great though. He posted finishes of 12th and 42nd last season. His 42nd place finish was a soared engine. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, Rowdy have compiled 21.6 average finish, 6.8 average start, 20.2 average running position, and 77.5 driver rating. Those are pretty average numbers. He been much better than that though. In 3 of those 6 races, he have either wrecked out or had a mechanical issue. In the other 3 races? He have compiled 8.7 average finish with 10.0 average running position and 98.5 driver rating. There probably better options than Rowdy this week though.
19-Carl Edwards: Heading into Dover, one of my biggest concerns was Carl Edwards. What does he go out and do? He speed twice on pit road. However I believe this will put him off most people radars at Pocono. Last season he struggled with finishes of 29th and 42nd. Those are terrible finishes, but he wasn't that bad though. Before last season? He wheeled off 4 of the previous 5 races inside the top 11. His other finish was 18th. I believe Edwards will be undervalued this week.
20-Matt Kenseth: Kenseth isn't a great pick this weekend. Pocono always been an average track for him. Over his past 4 starts at Pocono, he have compiled 27.5 average finish, 18.0 average start, 19.8 average running position, and 71.1 driver rating. In 30 career starts, Matt have only 10 Top 10 finishes with 16.1 average finish. He have finished 5 straight races at Pocono outside the top 20. Over his past 16 starts, Kenseth only have 4 Top 10 finishes. So he is basically averaging a top 10 finish every 4 races.
22-Joey Logano: Logano and Team Penske seem to have fallen off the map lately. Performance wise they've been decent, but decent isn't gonna cut it. Logano should make a okay option this week though. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 15.0 average finish, 9.0 average start, 10.5 average running position and 97.7 driver rating. Since the repave (6 races) , Logano have been one of the best in the series. Minus last June race, he have slapped together an impressive 6.8 average finish (series-best) with 10.6 average running position and 103.3 driver rating. Don't sleep on Logano, as he could pack quite a punch as a fantasy option.
24-Jeff Gordon: Gordon is a good sleeper for this weekend race. He is a 6-time winner and won success here recently. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 7.0 average finish, 10.8 average start, 8.3 average running position, 72 laps led and 113.6 driver rating. I wouldn't call Gordon a must-have or even a legitimate fantasy option. However he always seems to run well here for whatever reason. Even in down years like '09,'10,'12 and '13. All seasons he struggled to find wins, he ran well here.
27-Paul Menard: Menard is a hidden value-play this weekend. His stats don't show it, but he been a legitimate top 15 option. And he is running significantly better with his new crew chief. Mark my words, Menard will contend for another top 10 this weekend. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 30.3 average finish, 20.5 average start, 21.3 average running position and 63.7 driver rating. Very ugly numbers, but he was competitively running near or inside the top 15 when he had issues in all 4 races. Before he have had that stench of bad luck? He finished 6 straight races inside the top 16. Actually he wheeled off 5 Straight finishes of 14th or better from 2010 to 2012. More impressively had 3 straight Top 11 before landing in the shitter at Pocono!
31-Ryan Newman: Newman is one of the most underrated options at Pocono. Least this weekend that is. Pocono is a very great racetrack for him. I think it have something to do with the fishing. And he love fishing on the water! Over the past 4 races here, he have compiled 6.0 average finish, 15.8 average start, 13.0 average running position, 21 laps led and 95.3 driver rating. Last time finished outside the top 20? 2005. Which is 20 races ago! Last time he finished worse than 15th? 2008. In fact, he finished 9 straight races inside the top 12. Including 7 Top 10s in the past 9 races. Not many drivers have the consistent thing down at Pocono like Newman!
41-Kurt Busch: I have had this Pocono racetrack circled twice for Kurt Busch! His performance last June still stand out to me. He had one of the strongest cars in the field and that was in a down year. I have high hopes for him this weekend. Over the past 4 races at Pocono, he have compiled 6.5 average finish, 7.8 average start, 7.5 average running position, 44 laps led and 114.3 driver rating. Those are very good numbers, but he been even better recently. Over his past 7 races here, Busch have knocked off 4 finishes of 3rd or better. Historically speaking, he have held an 14.7 average finish with 11 Top 5s and 15 Top 10s in 27 races.
42-Kyle Larson: Kyle Larson may be on to something lately. He definitely have shown more speed lately and at Dover it all came together for the 2nd-year driver. What stood out most how strong he was last weekend. Not only in the race, but in practice too. Hopefully that continue at another good racetrack for him. Pocono is definitely a track he can have success at. Last season he posted an 8.0 average finish, 7.5 average start, 12.5 average running position and 95.7 driver rating. Hard judging Larson since we have little season data, but I am fairly high on him.
48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson coming off Dover with a win and now goes to another great racetrack. I am not gonna spend a lot of time on Johnson, but he have a strong track record here. In 27 career starts, Johnson have an 9.9 average finish with 3 wins. Including 6 Top 6 finishes in his past 10 races at this racetrack! Over his past 4 races here, he have compiled 14.8 average finish, 9.8 average start, 13.3 average running position, 176 laps led and 103.3 driver rating. I think Johnson is very beatable this weekend, but also believe he may put laps around the field. So kinda risk vs reward.
78-Martin Truex Jr: Truex have ran very well this season! He have finished inside the top 10 in 12 of 13 races this season. Unfortunately this isn't a great track for him from a career point of view. In 18 career starts, he have finished only 6 of those races inside the top 10. I think Truex will make a fine fantasy option, but I wouldn't expect anything super special though. He did finish 9th last June though.
88-Dale Jr: Dale Earnhardt Jr will be one of the more popular fantasy options this weekend. I don't think he will sweep Pocono again, but hard to argue against his results since 2012. In the past 6 races, he have compiled 8.3 average finish, 10.7 average start, 7.8 average running position, 80 laps led and 117.5 driver rating. Some people say he is a must-have, but I disagree. He probably the most reliable option, but I think there a few drivers with more upside.
*All stats from DriverAverages.com & FantasyRacingCheatSheet
Also remember to check out Nascar Behind The Wall for all your weekly Nascar needs. From schedules to Race previews.
Email - JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Fantasy Nascar RaceDay Thoughts (Dover)
Welcome to TimersSports
Happy Raceday. Setting your fantasy team can be difficult , especially with everything being factored in. Below our group of experts give their thoughts on today race (Including their final
picks).
Kate Roswell (@CrazyKateNascar):
-Today's race will be a tough day to pass. So track position will be huge from start to finish.
-The JGR cars have shown up with great amount of speed this weekend. Including 4 cars placed in the top 5 in final practice.
- Guy to watch may be Martin Truex Jr. He using the same car he dominated with at Kansas and Charlotte. He start 2nd!
- Can the HMS cars make to the front? Honestly only Johnson looked like top 5 material in practice.
Garry Briggs (@Garryy12):
-Paul Menard is someone to keep tabs on. He placed 3rd in final practice and finished 10th last season. He looked good all weekend!
-It may be reaching, but I have a feeling Brian Scott may surprise some people. He have ran well a few times this season in Cup. Can he do it again?
-Biggest disappointment this weekend? Probably Kasey Kahne. He looked lost since unloading on Friday.
-Those underestimate the Joe Gibbs Racing cars. They have led almost everything this weekend at Dover.
Matt Aleza (@MattAleza):
-Kyle Larson is a mystery puzzle. He qualified 3rd, but I am not convinced he will finish there. I need to see him build some consistency!
-Kyle Busch is my dark horse to win. JGR looked really good in practice and Dover is a Kyle Busch track.
-The key to victory will keeping up with adjustments and track position. As we saw in the NXS race.
-Can Johnson win at his best track? Maybe. Maybe not. It will be fun to watch.
Yahoo Lineups:
Kate's Lineup - 48,78,42,55
Garry's Lineup - 48,78,19,33
Matt's Lineup - 20,78,19,55
Sleeper Pick:
Kate's Pick - Paul Menard
Garry's Pick - Paul Menard
Matt's Pick - Austin Dillon
Race Winner:
Kate's Pick - Martin Truex Jr
Garry's Pick - Jimmie Johnson
Matt's Pick - Matt Kenseth
Happy Raceday. Setting your fantasy team can be difficult , especially with everything being factored in. Below our group of experts give their thoughts on today race (Including their final
picks).
Kate Roswell (@CrazyKateNascar):
-Today's race will be a tough day to pass. So track position will be huge from start to finish.
-The JGR cars have shown up with great amount of speed this weekend. Including 4 cars placed in the top 5 in final practice.
- Guy to watch may be Martin Truex Jr. He using the same car he dominated with at Kansas and Charlotte. He start 2nd!
- Can the HMS cars make to the front? Honestly only Johnson looked like top 5 material in practice.
Garry Briggs (@Garryy12):
-Paul Menard is someone to keep tabs on. He placed 3rd in final practice and finished 10th last season. He looked good all weekend!
-It may be reaching, but I have a feeling Brian Scott may surprise some people. He have ran well a few times this season in Cup. Can he do it again?
-Biggest disappointment this weekend? Probably Kasey Kahne. He looked lost since unloading on Friday.
-Those underestimate the Joe Gibbs Racing cars. They have led almost everything this weekend at Dover.
Matt Aleza (@MattAleza):
-Kyle Larson is a mystery puzzle. He qualified 3rd, but I am not convinced he will finish there. I need to see him build some consistency!
-Kyle Busch is my dark horse to win. JGR looked really good in practice and Dover is a Kyle Busch track.
-The key to victory will keeping up with adjustments and track position. As we saw in the NXS race.
-Can Johnson win at his best track? Maybe. Maybe not. It will be fun to watch.
Yahoo Lineups:
Kate's Lineup - 48,78,42,55
Garry's Lineup - 48,78,19,33
Matt's Lineup - 20,78,19,55
Sleeper Pick:
Kate's Pick - Paul Menard
Garry's Pick - Paul Menard
Matt's Pick - Austin Dillon
Race Winner:
Kate's Pick - Martin Truex Jr
Garry's Pick - Jimmie Johnson
Matt's Pick - Matt Kenseth
Fantasy Nascar Finak Rankings (Dover)
Welcome to TimersSports
1. Jimmie Johnson
2. Denny Hamlin
3. Kevin Harvick
4. Joey Logano
5. Matt Kenseth
6. Martin Truex Jr
7. Kurt Busch
8. Carl Edwards
9. Kyle Busch
10. Jeff Gordon
11. Brad Keselowski
12. Dale Jr
13. Paul Menard
14. Kasey Kahne
15. Kyle Larson
16. Greg Biffle
17. Ryan Newman
18. Jamie McMurray
19. Clint Bowyer
20. David Ragan
21. Aric Almirola
22. Austin Dillon
23. Tony Stewart
24. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
25. Casey Mears
26. AJ Dinger
27. Danica Patrick
28. Trevor Bayne
29. Brian Scott
30. Justin Allagier
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
1. Jimmie Johnson
2. Denny Hamlin
3. Kevin Harvick
4. Joey Logano
5. Matt Kenseth
6. Martin Truex Jr
7. Kurt Busch
8. Carl Edwards
9. Kyle Busch
10. Jeff Gordon
11. Brad Keselowski
12. Dale Jr
13. Paul Menard
14. Kasey Kahne
15. Kyle Larson
16. Greg Biffle
17. Ryan Newman
18. Jamie McMurray
19. Clint Bowyer
20. David Ragan
21. Aric Almirola
22. Austin Dillon
23. Tony Stewart
24. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
25. Casey Mears
26. AJ Dinger
27. Danica Patrick
28. Trevor Bayne
29. Brian Scott
30. Justin Allagier
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Fantasy Nascar Update (Dover)
Welcome to TimersSports
Dover isn't a tough track to make picks for. Typically the guys who we suspect to run in front on Sunday will find away through the field. However starting positions are very important! In 90 races , the race winner have came from the top 10 positions an staggering 71 times (78.8%). Not only is it difficult to pass, but track position is golden here. In terms from a fantasy vantage, the key is to use drivers who looked good in practice and have had decent historically success at Dover.
A:
1. Jimmie Johnson - Johnson is the safe bet this weekend! He qualified 14th and seems to have a really fast car for Sunday. On Saturday, he posted of a pair of strong practices that confirmed his spot as the favorite heading into this weekend race. Historically speaking, Johnson been the best driver at Dover for a long time. In 26 career starts, he have 9 wins and 14 Top 5s. Those numbers alone give him unlimited upside. I say he least scores another top 5 finish!
My Overall Ranking: 1st
2. Matt Kenseth - Kenseth in my opinion is the most undervalued driver in the field this weekend. He qualified 4th and posted a pair of good practices on Saturday. I wouldn't call them great, but it was definitely more than deserving. But typically when Kenseth start up front , he also finishes up front. Kenseth have been one of the most consistent driver over the past 4 seasons at Dover. I also like the fact that JGR have shown significant improves the past few weeks! With Kyle Busch back, I think JGR have a little swagger in their step. Don't be shocked to see this organization go back-to-back wins on Sunday!
My Overall Ranking: 2nd
3. Kevin Harvick - Harvick qualified 7th and looked pretty good in two practices on Saturday! However he wasn't dominated like he been in other race weekend this season.Typically you can tell when Harvick gonna dominate a race. This probably isn't one of them. I say he will finish in the top 5 on Sunday, but realistically I don't know if he have the best car heading into the race. However I am sure he will be a factor all day long though. I have him across the line 3rd.
My Overall Ranking: 3rd
4. Denny Hamlin - Hamlin should contend for a win on Sunday, but he been too inconsistent this season to be called a favorite in my opinion. Fortunately he have a lot going for him though. Finished 6th at Charlotte and qualified on the pole here at Dover! Followed that up by posting a pair of stout practices on Saturday. I definitely think JGR is onto something as of late. I don't think he will win, but it wouldn't surprise me either though.
My Overall Ranking: 4th
5. Joey Logano - Logano have performed well all season long, unfortunately he have qualified on the front row a lot too. Qualifying 5th isn't bad, but feel like he loses value since he doesn't have the luxury of starting on the front row. It definitely make a huge difference since Logano tend to fade through the field more often than not. I say he have an top 10 car with top 5 potential, if his team can keep up with the racetrack. Historically speaking this is a great racetrack for Joey Logano. Including 6 straight Top 10s finishes!
My Overall Ranking: 5th
Other Options - Kyle Busch (8th), Brad Keselowski (9th) , Gordon (12th), Dale Jr (13th) and Ryan Newman (15th)
B:
1. Martin Truex Jr - Truex is the top option in tier. He qualified 2nd and looked solid in pair of practices on Saturday. It helps that 2nd starting position have produced the most winners! Truex have always ran well here, so that definitely eases our minds too. Realistically I see Truex as a Top 10-option, but his momentum vaults him into the top 5. Add in his strong starting position. I think he end up somewhere between 4th - 8th place range. Honestly I don't know how good Truex truly is. He posted a lot of short runs in the two practices on Saturday. I am not too concerned since this is the same car he dominated Kansas and Charlotte with. I have across the line in 6th!
My Overall Ranking: 6th
2. Kurt Busch - Busch qualified 13th and posted a pair of strong practices on Saturday! I like Busch a lot, but Dover isn't exactly his best track. However that really doesn't matter. Busch have proven it doesn't matter how poor his track record been in the past. I believe he is an top 10 option heading into Sunday race. Not sure how he will finish though. Since Richmond, he haven't scored a top 5 finish. Even though he have ran inside the top 5 a lot! I have him in 7th when the checkers wave on Sunday afternoon.
My Overall Ranking: 7th
3. Kyle Larson - Larson had good practices and a strong qualifying effort. Honestly I definitely can see him notching his first top 5 of the season on Sunday. He had solid results last season and could continue that trend this weekend. He showed decent speed in practice this week and could potentially finish up front if the team can keep up with adjustments. I have him finishing somewhere from 8th-13th place range on Sunday. His solid starting position should help him out. Especially since Dover have one of the toughest pit roads in Nascar!
My Overall Ranking: 10th
4. Carl Edwards - Edwards look to keep the momentum going at Dover! He qualified 8th and posted solid practices on Saturday. Honestly I am still a little iffy on Edwards, but I think he should be more consistent going forward though. Especially since he is basically in the chase now. Joe Gibbs Racing as whole look more comfortable this weekend. All four cars look to have top 10 speed. I say Edwards contend for another top 10 on Sunday, but not sure if he have an top 5 car though. Overall I need to see Edwards put together back-to-back full races in 2015. Something I cannot say he have done this season. I have him across the line somewhere from 7th -12th place range.
My Overall Ranking: 11th
5. Kasey Kahne - Kahne get the last spot in my fantasy relevancy rankings. Cannot say I am very high on him though. In my preview, I wasn't very high on him either. Nothing have changed after 3 practices and a poor qualifying effort. He posted two mid-pack practices and look to have a car good enough for somewhere in the teens. That kinda been the trend for him over the past 5 Dover races. Hard seeing him running up front this weekend. I have him across the line in 14th.
My Overall Ranking: 14th
Other Options - Greg Biffle (16th), Jamie Mac (17th), Austin Dillon (18th), and Paul Menard (19th)
C:
1. David Ragan - Ragan once again look solid in practice, but I am not buying into it though. I personally cannot get behind MWR this season. Personal feelings aside, I think Ragan was by far the best driver this weekend in the C-list tier. He qualified 15th and posted solid practices on Saturday. In this tier, I think he have the potential to finish 4-5 positions ahead of everyone else. However he will need to keep his car out of trouble though.
My Overall Ranking: 20th
2. Brian Scott - Scott is the dark horse in this tier. He qualified 27th and looked okay overall. He wasn't nothing special, but Scott from time to time this weekend have shown flashes of terrific potential. Never consistent enough to be consider a sure thing unfortunately. I think he will contend for a top 25 at Dover. If he can find more speed, then Scott might be a steal in some formats. I have across the line anywhere from 23rd-28th place range when the checkers wave.
My Overall Ranking: 25th
3. Danica Patrick - Patrick have struggled all weekend! Honestly I expect her to be better than what she have shown so far. Danica qualified 33rd and posted lap times mainly around 30th place or so. Honestly I think she will do better than that come raceday. Realistically I don't think she is very useful in most formats. Typically she perform her best on the large-Intermediate racetracks like Michigan and Pocono coming up.
My Overall Ranking: 26th
4. Justin Allgaier - Allgaier typically doesn't performance well on tracks like Dover. He usually good for finishes somewhere in the mid-20s to lower-30s. He qualified 24th, but have hovered around the 30th place mark on the speed charts most of the weekend! Honestly I usually don't even consider Justin outside of the short-tracks. His equipment just isn't good enough to run competitively in this tier. I have him across the line in 28th!
My Overall Ranking: 28th
Email - JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
Dover isn't a tough track to make picks for. Typically the guys who we suspect to run in front on Sunday will find away through the field. However starting positions are very important! In 90 races , the race winner have came from the top 10 positions an staggering 71 times (78.8%). Not only is it difficult to pass, but track position is golden here. In terms from a fantasy vantage, the key is to use drivers who looked good in practice and have had decent historically success at Dover.
A:
1. Jimmie Johnson - Johnson is the safe bet this weekend! He qualified 14th and seems to have a really fast car for Sunday. On Saturday, he posted of a pair of strong practices that confirmed his spot as the favorite heading into this weekend race. Historically speaking, Johnson been the best driver at Dover for a long time. In 26 career starts, he have 9 wins and 14 Top 5s. Those numbers alone give him unlimited upside. I say he least scores another top 5 finish!
My Overall Ranking: 1st
2. Matt Kenseth - Kenseth in my opinion is the most undervalued driver in the field this weekend. He qualified 4th and posted a pair of good practices on Saturday. I wouldn't call them great, but it was definitely more than deserving. But typically when Kenseth start up front , he also finishes up front. Kenseth have been one of the most consistent driver over the past 4 seasons at Dover. I also like the fact that JGR have shown significant improves the past few weeks! With Kyle Busch back, I think JGR have a little swagger in their step. Don't be shocked to see this organization go back-to-back wins on Sunday!
My Overall Ranking: 2nd
3. Kevin Harvick - Harvick qualified 7th and looked pretty good in two practices on Saturday! However he wasn't dominated like he been in other race weekend this season.Typically you can tell when Harvick gonna dominate a race. This probably isn't one of them. I say he will finish in the top 5 on Sunday, but realistically I don't know if he have the best car heading into the race. However I am sure he will be a factor all day long though. I have him across the line 3rd.
My Overall Ranking: 3rd
4. Denny Hamlin - Hamlin should contend for a win on Sunday, but he been too inconsistent this season to be called a favorite in my opinion. Fortunately he have a lot going for him though. Finished 6th at Charlotte and qualified on the pole here at Dover! Followed that up by posting a pair of stout practices on Saturday. I definitely think JGR is onto something as of late. I don't think he will win, but it wouldn't surprise me either though.
My Overall Ranking: 4th
5. Joey Logano - Logano have performed well all season long, unfortunately he have qualified on the front row a lot too. Qualifying 5th isn't bad, but feel like he loses value since he doesn't have the luxury of starting on the front row. It definitely make a huge difference since Logano tend to fade through the field more often than not. I say he have an top 10 car with top 5 potential, if his team can keep up with the racetrack. Historically speaking this is a great racetrack for Joey Logano. Including 6 straight Top 10s finishes!
My Overall Ranking: 5th
Other Options - Kyle Busch (8th), Brad Keselowski (9th) , Gordon (12th), Dale Jr (13th) and Ryan Newman (15th)
B:
1. Martin Truex Jr - Truex is the top option in tier. He qualified 2nd and looked solid in pair of practices on Saturday. It helps that 2nd starting position have produced the most winners! Truex have always ran well here, so that definitely eases our minds too. Realistically I see Truex as a Top 10-option, but his momentum vaults him into the top 5. Add in his strong starting position. I think he end up somewhere between 4th - 8th place range. Honestly I don't know how good Truex truly is. He posted a lot of short runs in the two practices on Saturday. I am not too concerned since this is the same car he dominated Kansas and Charlotte with. I have across the line in 6th!
My Overall Ranking: 6th
2. Kurt Busch - Busch qualified 13th and posted a pair of strong practices on Saturday! I like Busch a lot, but Dover isn't exactly his best track. However that really doesn't matter. Busch have proven it doesn't matter how poor his track record been in the past. I believe he is an top 10 option heading into Sunday race. Not sure how he will finish though. Since Richmond, he haven't scored a top 5 finish. Even though he have ran inside the top 5 a lot! I have him in 7th when the checkers wave on Sunday afternoon.
My Overall Ranking: 7th
3. Kyle Larson - Larson had good practices and a strong qualifying effort. Honestly I definitely can see him notching his first top 5 of the season on Sunday. He had solid results last season and could continue that trend this weekend. He showed decent speed in practice this week and could potentially finish up front if the team can keep up with adjustments. I have him finishing somewhere from 8th-13th place range on Sunday. His solid starting position should help him out. Especially since Dover have one of the toughest pit roads in Nascar!
My Overall Ranking: 10th
4. Carl Edwards - Edwards look to keep the momentum going at Dover! He qualified 8th and posted solid practices on Saturday. Honestly I am still a little iffy on Edwards, but I think he should be more consistent going forward though. Especially since he is basically in the chase now. Joe Gibbs Racing as whole look more comfortable this weekend. All four cars look to have top 10 speed. I say Edwards contend for another top 10 on Sunday, but not sure if he have an top 5 car though. Overall I need to see Edwards put together back-to-back full races in 2015. Something I cannot say he have done this season. I have him across the line somewhere from 7th -12th place range.
My Overall Ranking: 11th
5. Kasey Kahne - Kahne get the last spot in my fantasy relevancy rankings. Cannot say I am very high on him though. In my preview, I wasn't very high on him either. Nothing have changed after 3 practices and a poor qualifying effort. He posted two mid-pack practices and look to have a car good enough for somewhere in the teens. That kinda been the trend for him over the past 5 Dover races. Hard seeing him running up front this weekend. I have him across the line in 14th.
My Overall Ranking: 14th
Other Options - Greg Biffle (16th), Jamie Mac (17th), Austin Dillon (18th), and Paul Menard (19th)
C:
1. David Ragan - Ragan once again look solid in practice, but I am not buying into it though. I personally cannot get behind MWR this season. Personal feelings aside, I think Ragan was by far the best driver this weekend in the C-list tier. He qualified 15th and posted solid practices on Saturday. In this tier, I think he have the potential to finish 4-5 positions ahead of everyone else. However he will need to keep his car out of trouble though.
My Overall Ranking: 20th
2. Brian Scott - Scott is the dark horse in this tier. He qualified 27th and looked okay overall. He wasn't nothing special, but Scott from time to time this weekend have shown flashes of terrific potential. Never consistent enough to be consider a sure thing unfortunately. I think he will contend for a top 25 at Dover. If he can find more speed, then Scott might be a steal in some formats. I have across the line anywhere from 23rd-28th place range when the checkers wave.
My Overall Ranking: 25th
3. Danica Patrick - Patrick have struggled all weekend! Honestly I expect her to be better than what she have shown so far. Danica qualified 33rd and posted lap times mainly around 30th place or so. Honestly I think she will do better than that come raceday. Realistically I don't think she is very useful in most formats. Typically she perform her best on the large-Intermediate racetracks like Michigan and Pocono coming up.
My Overall Ranking: 26th
4. Justin Allgaier - Allgaier typically doesn't performance well on tracks like Dover. He usually good for finishes somewhere in the mid-20s to lower-30s. He qualified 24th, but have hovered around the 30th place mark on the speed charts most of the weekend! Honestly I usually don't even consider Justin outside of the short-tracks. His equipment just isn't good enough to run competitively in this tier. I have him across the line in 28th!
My Overall Ranking: 28th
Email - JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Fantasy Nascar Picks (Dover)
Welcome to TimersSports
Dover is next on tap for NSCS. This is a tough racetrack to master. The monster mile brings many challenges to teams and drivers. Most drivers will be chasing the track all weekend long. While other will find a rhythm and run away with Sunday's race!
From fantasy point of view the key to success will be to use drivers who have performed well at Dover. As there is no true comparable track. Unlike the cookie-cutters we have been visiting recently.
Yahoo -
A:
Start: Jimmie Johnson (7)
Bench: Matt Kenseth (8)
Explanation- Jimmie Johnson will be the favorite in Sunday race. No need to get cute and leave points on the table. It won't pay off to save because this Johnson best track. What are saving him for? Need to use him at his best tracks and Dover qualifies.
B:
Start: Carl Edwards (9), Martin Truex Jr (7)
Bench: Kyle Larson (9) , Kurt Busch (7)
Explanation- Who offer me the most potential points? Larson will be good, but I don't trust him. Busch will be good, but I think there better tracks ahead for him. Edwards and Truex in my opinion were just better overall! Strong Dover record and fast cars.
C:
Start: Brian Scott (9)
Bench: Danica Patrick (8)
Explanation- Pretty meh options in C this week. I really don't like anyone. One of the reasons I thrown Brian Scott on late Thursday night. He haven't been super, but he might be a sneaky option to use. Especially since I don't really see anyone running away in this tier.
Fantasy Live - 78,41,4,46, and 19
Fox Fantasy Racing - 48,2,24,18 and 41
Draft King - 48,78,18,27 and 43
Sleeper - Paul Menard
Winner - Jimmie Johnson
Email - briggs_garry48@yahoo.com
Twitter - @Garryy12
Dover is next on tap for NSCS. This is a tough racetrack to master. The monster mile brings many challenges to teams and drivers. Most drivers will be chasing the track all weekend long. While other will find a rhythm and run away with Sunday's race!
From fantasy point of view the key to success will be to use drivers who have performed well at Dover. As there is no true comparable track. Unlike the cookie-cutters we have been visiting recently.
Yahoo -
A:
Start: Jimmie Johnson (7)
Bench: Matt Kenseth (8)
Explanation- Jimmie Johnson will be the favorite in Sunday race. No need to get cute and leave points on the table. It won't pay off to save because this Johnson best track. What are saving him for? Need to use him at his best tracks and Dover qualifies.
B:
Start: Carl Edwards (9), Martin Truex Jr (7)
Bench: Kyle Larson (9) , Kurt Busch (7)
Explanation- Who offer me the most potential points? Larson will be good, but I don't trust him. Busch will be good, but I think there better tracks ahead for him. Edwards and Truex in my opinion were just better overall! Strong Dover record and fast cars.
C:
Start: Brian Scott (9)
Bench: Danica Patrick (8)
Explanation- Pretty meh options in C this week. I really don't like anyone. One of the reasons I thrown Brian Scott on late Thursday night. He haven't been super, but he might be a sneaky option to use. Especially since I don't really see anyone running away in this tier.
Fantasy Live - 78,41,4,46, and 19
Fox Fantasy Racing - 48,2,24,18 and 41
Draft King - 48,78,18,27 and 43
Sleeper - Paul Menard
Winner - Jimmie Johnson
Email - briggs_garry48@yahoo.com
Twitter - @Garryy12
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