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After a rainy and (somewhat) wreck-filled Atlanta race , we swing our attention to the west coast trip. We start the west tour at Las Vegas! Vegas is another 1.5 mile venue, back in January several teams tested. Honestly I felt blindfolded last week at Atlanta , even with testing. Heading into to Las Vegas , I feel a lot better than I did last at Atlanta.
This is the third race of the season! If you're in a hole , than it may be time to take aggressive approach the next few races. Each week that goes by is a waste opportunity , isn't it? Its early in the season , but don't fall too far behind (depending on difficulty of your league.) If you're among the leaders in your respectable league , than it time to stabilize consistency and keep that momentum going forward!
Las Vegas Preview:
1-Jamie Mac: If you have played fantasy racing long enough , then you know JMac biggest flaw is his incredible bad luck. At Atlanta , his flaw was disposed and Jamie finished 40th. Despite being fast all day long. At Vegas , JMac been fairly decent over the past two season. He have compiled an 15.0 average start , 14.0 average finish , 8 laps led and 81.6 driver rating. Since 2010 , Jamie only have recorded 1 Top 10 at Vegas and that was in 2012. I expect him to be a teen-ish driver with top 10 upside (maybe).
2-Brad Keselowski: Brad K looked considerably off at Atlanta. Honestly I didn't expect that out of him. I will assume that was just a fluke by him. Last season at Vegas , Brad didn't have the best car but was able to find Victory Lane. He passed a fading Dale Jr on the final lap. In 2013 , Brad took his Ford to an 3rd-place finish. In fact , Brad have started on the front row in his previous two starts. Over past two seasons , BK have compiled 1 win , 1.5 average start , 2.0 average finish , 65 laps led and 126.4 driver rating. Brad strength in 2014 was on this type track.
3-Austin Dillon: Tough day at Atlanta for Dillon! He didn't blow a tire once , but twice in span of like 10 laps. Before contact with #9 car (I think) , he looked pretty darn good and was competitively in the mid-teens. Dillon have two starts at Vegas , including an 16th place finish early during his rookie campaign last season. Dillon have showed promise on these 1.5ers , but haven't taken that next step.
4-Kevin Harvick: Harvick let another win slip past him at Atlanta after arguably being the man to beat all day. Nothing new for Harvick though. In 2014 , he was the man to beat here at Vegas before a tire hub ruined his day. Over the past 3 seasons , Harvick have an 20.3 average finish. Excluding last season's 41st , Harvick have finishes of 11th and 9th. In 14 career starts , nine times Harvick have finished 13th or better. His best finish came in 2010 of 2nd. Last season he was considered the driver to beat every time we visit an intermediate racetrack.
5-Kasey Kahne: I am a Kahne believer , oh yes! The pairing of Kahne and Rodden gonna bring the 5 back to fantasy relevancy. Last week the 5 car actually looked like a Hendrick car. Only one race , but I liked what I saw. Will it continue? Its definitely could at Las Vegas. Two years ago , Kasey Kahne had a dominating car and finished 2nd! He led almost half that race before Kenseth held him at bay for the remaining 20 or 30 laps. In last season event , Kahne wasn't nearly as good but was able to put together an 8th place effort and held 91.2 driver rating.
10-Danica Patrick: Danica is coming off a very solid 16th place finish at Atlanta. Las Vegas may not be widely known as a "Danica track" , but she did finish 22nd in last season race. These fast intermediate tracks seems to fit her pretty well. But to be completely honest I don't know how you could use her in many formats with better options at much better values.
11-Denny Hamlin: I bet some of us are still pissed at Hamlin for taking out our fantasy picks at Atlanta. Well you can probably leave him off your fantasy lineups if it makes you feel better. Hamlin only finish 4 times in the top 10 in 9 career starts. Surprisingly have completed all but 1 lap and worst finish came in 2009 of 22nd. 4 of 5 finishes outside the top 10 have came in the 12th-20th place range. Past two seasons , Hamlin have finishes of 12th and 15th.
14-Tony Stewart: Smoke is having a bad year and it not even one month old. He wrecked out at Daytona and finished multiple laps down at Atlanta! Good news is he probably hit rock bottom. Las Vegas been a good , but not great track for Smoke. From 2010 to 2012 , Smoke was almost unstoppable. In that 3 race span , he had an 3.3 average finish and posted finishes in the top 2 in 2 of those 3 races. Last season he looked nothing like that Smoke unfortunately. He arguably had worst race of his career. Why? He was extremely non-competitive and wasn't even a top 25 driver. Don't be fooled , Smoke didn't finish 33rd because of a wreck. He was really that bad overall.
15-Clint Bowyer: Not sure what happened to Bowyer at Atlanta , but Bowyer might be a good sleeper pick. Excluding his past two Vegas results , Clint have 4 straight top 15s. Including an 6th run in his MWR debut in 2012. His strength the past two season been qualifying here. Bowyer have an 2.5 average start , but finished outside top 20 in both races.
16-Greg Biffle: The Biff is someone I would avoid (sounds familiar from 2014) , and probably should be said about RFR in general. The Biff actually a little overrated here. People tend to think he a great option here. Actually that's false. Earlier in his career that may have been true , but 3 of his past 4 races have ended in 17th or worse. The past two seasons , the Biff have finishes of 17th and 22nd.
18-David Ragan: Great run by Ragan , and I was impressed. I was a little nervous starting him on my fantasy team , but I was happy with the results. At Las Vegas , he never been that good. Looking back at his Roush days , Ragan didn't have many good results. His only respectable run was 7th in 2008! But he did finish inside the top 25 in 3 of the next 4 races after that 7th place effort in 2008. Maybe he can pick up where he left off?
20-Matt Kenseth: At Atlanta , Kenseth showed a lot of speed and was a legitimate contender all day! At Vegas , he been pretty overall. In 14 career races , MK have finished 17th or better eleven times. Including 3 career wins and 8 Top 10s (6 finishes 5th or better.) Two years ago was Kenseth last win. He didn't have the best car , but was leading when it mattered. In that race he started 18th , but drove quickly through the field on his way to lead 42 laps. Wouldn't mind another similar outcome from the savy veteran!
22-Joey Logano: Logano is coming off an solid top 5 at Atlanta , right where left off in 2014 on this type track. Las Vegas is probably one of his best tracks overall! In 6 career starts , Logano have 5 finishes of 16th or better ( 3 Top 12s) , and is coming off an career-best 4th in 2014! He was my right-hand man when it came to this type track in 2014. That won't change in 2015 as he is off to another hot start.
24-Jeff Gordon: I am was unimpressed by Gordon at Atlanta and I didn't see myself using him anytime soon. You want him? You can have him at Las Vegas! Vegas been a ugly track of late for Gordon. 3 of the past 4 races have ended 12th or worse. He did finish 9th last season. The problem is he wasn't a contender in any of those races. When Gordon isn't a contender , its kind useless to use him. Last week at Atlanta , he wasn't himself either. Went most of that race as a teen driver. Similar how he been at Vegas past few seasons.
27-Paul Menard: Is there a better sleeper than Paul Menard at Vegas? After last season , I say no! He was a standout , because that car was a rocketship on the long run! He may have won last season race if that race went a little longer. Not the first time he found success at though. Menard have 4 straight finishes of 12th or better. Including 3 straight Top 10 and he have posted a driver rating above 90 in every event. So not like he lucked into those finishes either.
31-Ryan Newman: Newman another RCR driver who have the potential to deliver a quality finish this weekend at Vegas. Despite never winning , RN have finished in the top 7 in 3 of his past 4 races. In 2013 (only bad race) , Newman finished 38th due to an blown engine. In his previous two starts (2011 and 2012) , Newman finished inside the top 5! There probably better options with more upside , but he might be the safer and more reliable option.
41-Regan Smith: I wrote Smith off last week , but fought back and finished in 17th I believe! Great race for him and maybe that enough for SHR to keep the 41 around (even if Kurt doesn't return.) There not a lot to go on at this point , and to be honest I actually don't hate using Smith. His last relevant ride was from 2009 to 2012 with FRR (78 team) , and he score 3 Top 21 in 4 starts. Including finishes of 15th (2012) and 19th (2009) with that team. If he can pick up where he left off , he would make a super fine fantasy option.
42-Kyle Larson: Kyle Larson was a disappointment at Atlanta and that's a shame. Once the track rubber up , Larson was a goner unfortunately. At Las Vegas , he only have 1 race under his belt and that is a 19th place finish last season. Kind lost faith in the 42 at the moment , and it not his fault. The CGR cars seems to be lacking speed and that is concerning. Especially once the track rubbered up last Sunday. Neither car looked too good.
47-AJ Dinger: I said the Dinger was a deep sleeper for Atlanta in my update and boy did I nailed that. He was impressive and now goes to Las Vegas where he finished 18th one year ago! I liked that the Dinger tested here in January , but I don't like his track record. While I think there a lot positive for Dinger , there probably better options with more upside.
48-Jimmie Johnson: Johnson wasn't very happy with car to start Atlanta , but Chad (aka the wizard) made that Chevy into a hot rod. Now Jimmie goes to one of his best tracks on the schedule in Vegas. Last season Johnson had one of the better cars. The past 3 seasons can be said of that. How can get worse? Johnson is coming off a win and history say he will make it back-to-back wins. In 13 career races , Johnson have 9 finishes of 11th or better. Including 8 finishes in the top 6. That's counting 4 wins and one 2nd place finish. Over past two seasons , Johnson have back-to-back finishes of 6th. Johnson probably should have won in 2013. If it wasn't due to a bad pit stop.
78-Martin Truex Jr: Truex was one of my sleepers in the offseason and he off to a fast start. Don't expect him to slow down either. Las Vegas been a very good track for driver of the 78 car. FFR actually have been historically good since debuting in the Cup series. Especially over the past 6 races , only once have they finished worse than 21th place. That is crazy good for a single underfunded team. Truex Jr finished 14th last season at Vegas in the 78. He finished 6th at Atlanta last week.
88-Dale Jr: Dale Jr is coming off back-to-back 3rd place finishes and he is probably gonna make it 3 straight Top 5s if the trend continue as it did last season. In 2014 , he accomplished the same feat. He placed in the top 3 in the first 3 races. Last season Dale Jr almost won this race before running out fuel. Since joining HMS , Dale Jr have recorded 6 Top 10s in his past 7 starts and have led least 50 laps in 2 of past 3 Vegas races.
***All stats from Driver averages
Email - JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
Monday, March 02, 2015
Sunday, March 01, 2015
Fantasy Nascar RaceDay Thoughts
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):
-If/how much of today race do we get in? That's should be on everyone minds. Because if we racing to halfway , then it could affect how we set our lineups. Keep a eye on the weather and plan accordingly.
-Kevin Harvick may be the man to beat and if it wasn't for a blown engine..he would be a heavy favorite.
- The JGR cars I think will take command early. They're hooked up this weekend at their best racetrack.
-My sleeper pick is the 1 car. He need to do little work to be a contender , but I like him for a finish near top 10.
Garry Briggs Jr (@Garryy12):
-Denny Hamlin is the guy to beat after Harvick blown engine. Believe me when I say he gonna be a force today. He loves his car.
-Rain is the question! Will we get a race in? I wanna know..guess we will find out!
-Kyle Larson is someone I absolutely love for today race. He gonna win and it just may happen right here in state of Georgia.
- Watch out for AJ Dinger! This is his top Intermediate track. He may be the best kept secret this week.
Matt Aleza (@MattAleza):
- The Hendricks cars haven't been talked about much as I expected. A pair of them start deep in the field in today race. Will be fun to watch.
-I am interested how Paul Menard and Austin Dillon do in today race. Both start just outside top 12. Especially Menard , he seemed to have a lot of early season success in the past.
-Can Kaaey Kahne win back-to-back? I think he can..be watching the 5 early and often.
-My mindset is we only gonna get halfway today. I think that the only mindset you can afford to have.
Yahoo Picks -
Kate Picks: 11,5,42 and 18
Garry Picks - 4,42,1,18.
Matt Picks - 24,5,42,18
Sleepers -
Kate's Sleeper: Jamie McMurray
Garry's Sleeper: AJ Dinger
Matt's Sleeper: Paul Menard
Race Winner:
Kate's Pick: Denny Hamlin
Garry's Pick: Kevin Harvick
Matt's Pick: Kasey Kahne
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):
-If/how much of today race do we get in? That's should be on everyone minds. Because if we racing to halfway , then it could affect how we set our lineups. Keep a eye on the weather and plan accordingly.
-Kevin Harvick may be the man to beat and if it wasn't for a blown engine..he would be a heavy favorite.
- The JGR cars I think will take command early. They're hooked up this weekend at their best racetrack.
-My sleeper pick is the 1 car. He need to do little work to be a contender , but I like him for a finish near top 10.
Garry Briggs Jr (@Garryy12):
-Denny Hamlin is the guy to beat after Harvick blown engine. Believe me when I say he gonna be a force today. He loves his car.
-Rain is the question! Will we get a race in? I wanna know..guess we will find out!
-Kyle Larson is someone I absolutely love for today race. He gonna win and it just may happen right here in state of Georgia.
- Watch out for AJ Dinger! This is his top Intermediate track. He may be the best kept secret this week.
Matt Aleza (@MattAleza):
- The Hendricks cars haven't been talked about much as I expected. A pair of them start deep in the field in today race. Will be fun to watch.
-I am interested how Paul Menard and Austin Dillon do in today race. Both start just outside top 12. Especially Menard , he seemed to have a lot of early season success in the past.
-Can Kaaey Kahne win back-to-back? I think he can..be watching the 5 early and often.
-My mindset is we only gonna get halfway today. I think that the only mindset you can afford to have.
Yahoo Picks -
Kate Picks: 11,5,42 and 18
Garry Picks - 4,42,1,18.
Matt Picks - 24,5,42,18
Sleepers -
Kate's Sleeper: Jamie McMurray
Garry's Sleeper: AJ Dinger
Matt's Sleeper: Paul Menard
Race Winner:
Kate's Pick: Denny Hamlin
Garry's Pick: Kevin Harvick
Matt's Pick: Kasey Kahne
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Fantasy Nascar Final Rankings (Atlanta)
Welcome to TimersSports
Final Rankings -
1. Denny Hamlin
2. Joey Logano
3. Kevin Harvick
4. Jeff Gordon
5. Carl Edwards
6. Kyle Larson
7. Kasey Kahne
8. Dale JR
9. Jimmie Johnson
10. Matt Kenseth
11. Jamie McMuarray
12. Ryan Newman
13. Brad Keselowski
14. Austin Dillon
15. Clint Bowyer
16. Paul Menard
17. Greg Biffle
18. AJ Dinger
19. Tony Stewart
20. Martin Truex Jr
21. Danica Patrick
22. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
23. Casey Mears
24. David Ragan
25. Sam Hornish JR
26. Aric Almirola
27. Regan Smith
28. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
29. Justin Allgier
30. Trevor Bayne
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Final Rankings -
1. Denny Hamlin
2. Joey Logano
3. Kevin Harvick
4. Jeff Gordon
5. Carl Edwards
6. Kyle Larson
7. Kasey Kahne
8. Dale JR
9. Jimmie Johnson
10. Matt Kenseth
11. Jamie McMuarray
12. Ryan Newman
13. Brad Keselowski
14. Austin Dillon
15. Clint Bowyer
16. Paul Menard
17. Greg Biffle
18. AJ Dinger
19. Tony Stewart
20. Martin Truex Jr
21. Danica Patrick
22. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
23. Casey Mears
24. David Ragan
25. Sam Hornish JR
26. Aric Almirola
27. Regan Smith
28. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
29. Justin Allgier
30. Trevor Bayne
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Fantasy Nascar Picks (Atlanta)
Welcome to TimersSports
Daytona Recap: Welp last week could've went better , but overall across the boards , we had a pretty good week. Just probably could have been better if Matt Kenseth and Landon Cassill didn't have poor finishes. Its helped that several other drivers got into trouble on Sunday. But that Daytona for ya , I picked the drivers who I thought would have the best value heading in. On plus side , Bobby Labonte was a terrific play in fantasy live. Lets move on to Atlanta and try to rebound.
Atlanta Look ahead: I been to the past 10 Atlanta races and one thing I have learned is that rain almost always a factor for the weekend on track activities. That's no different for this weekend race. Atlanta is a 1.5 mile worn out surface , its is the fastest among the 1.5 milers. Usually a good lineup will consist of elite options and legit sleepers in Yahoo. For Fantasy Live , you want your drivers to start up front. But wouldn't be against using few drivers who have poor starting position. Especially if your league rewards position differential.
Yahoo Picks-
A:
Start: Jeff Gordon (9)
Bench: Kevin Harvick (9)
Reason - When comes down to it , who do I trust more? Gordon or Harvick? I trust Gordon to deliver. Harvick changing a engine scared me away , plus I want max point out of Harvick. I don't see him going from last to first and leading the most laps. Therefore Gordon over Harvick.
B:
Start: Kyle Larson (9) , Kasey Kahne (9)
Bench: Jamie McMurray (9) , Carl Edwards (9)
Reason - Tough decisions had to be made in this grouping. I decided to go with Larson and Kahne! Why? Pretty simple. I don't 100% trust Edwards , with it being his first real race for JGR. And Jamie McMurray I think will do well , but I am a little iffy of him. Mainly because he haven't earned my trust.
C:
Start: David Ragan (9)
Bench: Regan Smith
Reason - Pretty easy here. Ragan been better all week/weekend than Smith. I see no reason to use Smith in Yahoo.
Fantasy Live - 48,22,41,4 and 18
Sleeper Pick - Jamie McMurray
Race Winner - Denny Hamlin
*Check back throughout week for updated Lineup
Email - MattAleza@yahoo.com
Twitter - @MattAleza
Daytona Recap: Welp last week could've went better , but overall across the boards , we had a pretty good week. Just probably could have been better if Matt Kenseth and Landon Cassill didn't have poor finishes. Its helped that several other drivers got into trouble on Sunday. But that Daytona for ya , I picked the drivers who I thought would have the best value heading in. On plus side , Bobby Labonte was a terrific play in fantasy live. Lets move on to Atlanta and try to rebound.
Atlanta Look ahead: I been to the past 10 Atlanta races and one thing I have learned is that rain almost always a factor for the weekend on track activities. That's no different for this weekend race. Atlanta is a 1.5 mile worn out surface , its is the fastest among the 1.5 milers. Usually a good lineup will consist of elite options and legit sleepers in Yahoo. For Fantasy Live , you want your drivers to start up front. But wouldn't be against using few drivers who have poor starting position. Especially if your league rewards position differential.
Yahoo Picks-
A:
Start: Jeff Gordon (9)
Bench: Kevin Harvick (9)
Reason - When comes down to it , who do I trust more? Gordon or Harvick? I trust Gordon to deliver. Harvick changing a engine scared me away , plus I want max point out of Harvick. I don't see him going from last to first and leading the most laps. Therefore Gordon over Harvick.
B:
Start: Kyle Larson (9) , Kasey Kahne (9)
Bench: Jamie McMurray (9) , Carl Edwards (9)
Reason - Tough decisions had to be made in this grouping. I decided to go with Larson and Kahne! Why? Pretty simple. I don't 100% trust Edwards , with it being his first real race for JGR. And Jamie McMurray I think will do well , but I am a little iffy of him. Mainly because he haven't earned my trust.
C:
Start: David Ragan (9)
Bench: Regan Smith
Reason - Pretty easy here. Ragan been better all week/weekend than Smith. I see no reason to use Smith in Yahoo.
Fantasy Live - 48,22,41,4 and 18
Sleeper Pick - Jamie McMurray
Race Winner - Denny Hamlin
*Check back throughout week for updated Lineup
Email - MattAleza@yahoo.com
Twitter - @MattAleza
Fantasy Nascar Update (Atlanta)
Welcome to TimersSports
We are at Atlanta this weekend! On Thursday there were two open test sessions led by JMac and Jeff Gordon. Both placed in the top 10 in both sessions. Matt Kenseth and Kyle Larson also placed in the top 10 in both sessions. Few others did as well. On Friday , Kyle Larson topped the lone practice session followed by Kevin Harvick , David Ragan and Joey Logano. Qualifying was a mess unfortunately! Several drivers were unable to put a lap. In the end , Joey Logano continue his hot start with a pole reward.
So how did drivers fair in final practice and how do they stack up for this weekend race? Glad you asked..your answers are below:
A:
1. Joey Logano - Logano in my opinion has the best shot to go to victory lane. I don't think he will dominate , but he was one of the best car on the long run. More importantly , JoLo have a great pit stall. There really aren't too many legitimate contenders starting up front. Several of the favorites are starting deep into the 30s. If you have Logano , than start him.
My Overall Ranking: 1st
2. Kevin Harvick- Harvick has the best car heading into Sunday race. But he blew up in final practice , so I had to bump him down a spot. Don't worry , he will charge up to the front in no time though. Harvick was 2nd in first practice and 1st in final practice. He bad fast on the long runs. Harvick is my pick to win , if he get back to front on Sunday. He led 195 laps in last year race.
My Overall Ranking: 2nd
3. Jeff Gordon- There a lot to like about Gordon. He been good all weekend long and will roll off 35th on Sunday. He was very good on the long run , so I wouldn't worry about his poor starting position. Ultimately Gordon starting position bump him in my rankings , but no need to be concerned though. Gordon will be a serious player for the win and you can count on that.
My Overall Ranking: 3rd
4. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin is someone who been off everyone radars , but yet he have to be considered a major threat come Sunday. Hamlin will roll off from 4th. He been pretty darn fast since unloading Thursday. On Friday , Hamlin posted 5th fastest lap of the lone session. Followed that up with 4th fastest in final practice. Also liked how he didn't fall off on the long run compared to other cars. Hamlin seems to be happy about his Toyota after conclusion of Final practice.
My Overall Ranking: 4th
5. Jimmie Johnson - I have faith that Johnson will be able to slice through the field on Sunday. He been solid all weekend long. In middle of final practice , chad reported Johnson was losing most of his speed in turn 2. Later in the practice , Johnson was complaining about being too loose. Johnson probably in store for a top 10 on Sunday.
My Overall Ranking: 6th
Other Good choices: Dale Jr Kenseth and Brad K
B:
1. Carl Edwards - Edwards is my top pick in this tier. I think he will offer the best chance for a win on Sunday. Edwards haven't been quite as good as his teammate Hamlin. But don't think he won't be a serious threat when it comes down it to. Edwards will roll off 5th and showed speed in every session. Atlanta fits Edwards driving style as well. Something I like about picking him.
My Overall Ranking: 5th
2. Kasey Kahne - Kahne is someone to watch out for! The 5 car could make some noise come Sunday. He have a car which should finish in the 6th - 10th range overall. The defending race winner will start from the 10th position and finished 2nd in final practice. He was pretty fast overall. His handling was a little off , but that shouldn't be too much of a issue. I am sure Keith will fix that during the race.
My Overall Ranking: 7th
3. Kyle Larson - Larson is a excellent pick for your fantasy team. I liked what Larson have shown so far this weekend. The 42 car posted the 4th best 10-lap average on Saturday and will roll from 6th. Larson will undoubtedly outperform my overall ranking , but I want to leave some ceiling for him. Larson can win on Sunday and I am confident in that. Larson finished 8th in his Atlanta debut in 2014!
My Overall Ranking: 9th
4. Jamie Mac - I am convinced Chip G have made JMac believe he is better than he actually is. Confidences can be a difference maker. Or it could be the result of better racecars on weekly basis. Either way I want more of this JMac! Jamie will start from 3rd and looks like a top 10 play , but I am smart enough to know to temper my expectations. If you played fantasy racing long enough , then you know what I mean. I have JMac as a top 15 option with top 10 upside.
My Overall Ranking: 13th
5. Paul Menard - Menard too deep of a sleeper for my taste , but wouldn't be the first time Menard surprised us with a top 10. Actually it would be typical Menard. Menard will start from 13th and I honestly see him finishing around that area. Maybe a little further back , but heck worth a shot I guess. Menard fell off too much in my opinion though on the long run. I ranked higher than I should've. He have more experience and/or better equipment than the next few drivers. In the end I decided to bump him up because of that.
My Overall Ranking: 14th
6. AJ Dinger - Watch for the Dinger! He someone who get overlooked pretty easily , but Atlanta might be his best unknown racetrack. Especially looking at Dinger from career point of view. I was surprised to see his career average around 17th place in 9 starts. So far this weekend , the Dinger have looked pretty good overall. He will start 11th on Sunday and posted the 6th fastest lap in final practice. I may have ranked him higher if it wasn't for his equipment level. I see least a top 20 for him. Wouldn't be shocked to see Dinger wheel home a top 15 at the checkers.
My Overall Ranking: 15th
Just missed: Dillon , Biffle , Truex jr and Smoke
C:
1. David Ragan- Debated who deserved the top spot in this tier. In the end , I like Ragan over Danica. Mainly because of the potential. Ragan I thought showed more promise throughout the weekend and will likely be a safer picker. Ragan probably a 20-ish type option , but wouldn't rule out a mid-teen result though.
My Overall Ranking: 21st
2. Danica Patrick- Its wouldn't shock me to see Danica finish ahead of Ragan. But it also wouldn't shock me to see her finish behind Ragan too. I like what Danica brings (value wise) as a fantasy option. This is consider one of her best racetracks. Depending on your league setup , Danica could make a terrific option. I have her around 20th at checkers.
My Overall Ranking: 22nd
3. Regan Smith - Of the three options in this tier , Smith is my least favorite overall. I am sure he will fine when it all said and done. But he starts deep in the field and was not very fast on the speed charts. His best 10 lap average was pretty terrible too. In Yahoo , I would pass on him. This might be our last opportunity to use him. But I wouldn't recommend him over either of the options above.
My Overall Ranking: 26th
Email: JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
We are at Atlanta this weekend! On Thursday there were two open test sessions led by JMac and Jeff Gordon. Both placed in the top 10 in both sessions. Matt Kenseth and Kyle Larson also placed in the top 10 in both sessions. Few others did as well. On Friday , Kyle Larson topped the lone practice session followed by Kevin Harvick , David Ragan and Joey Logano. Qualifying was a mess unfortunately! Several drivers were unable to put a lap. In the end , Joey Logano continue his hot start with a pole reward.
So how did drivers fair in final practice and how do they stack up for this weekend race? Glad you asked..your answers are below:
A:
1. Joey Logano - Logano in my opinion has the best shot to go to victory lane. I don't think he will dominate , but he was one of the best car on the long run. More importantly , JoLo have a great pit stall. There really aren't too many legitimate contenders starting up front. Several of the favorites are starting deep into the 30s. If you have Logano , than start him.
My Overall Ranking: 1st
2. Kevin Harvick- Harvick has the best car heading into Sunday race. But he blew up in final practice , so I had to bump him down a spot. Don't worry , he will charge up to the front in no time though. Harvick was 2nd in first practice and 1st in final practice. He bad fast on the long runs. Harvick is my pick to win , if he get back to front on Sunday. He led 195 laps in last year race.
My Overall Ranking: 2nd
3. Jeff Gordon- There a lot to like about Gordon. He been good all weekend long and will roll off 35th on Sunday. He was very good on the long run , so I wouldn't worry about his poor starting position. Ultimately Gordon starting position bump him in my rankings , but no need to be concerned though. Gordon will be a serious player for the win and you can count on that.
My Overall Ranking: 3rd
4. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin is someone who been off everyone radars , but yet he have to be considered a major threat come Sunday. Hamlin will roll off from 4th. He been pretty darn fast since unloading Thursday. On Friday , Hamlin posted 5th fastest lap of the lone session. Followed that up with 4th fastest in final practice. Also liked how he didn't fall off on the long run compared to other cars. Hamlin seems to be happy about his Toyota after conclusion of Final practice.
My Overall Ranking: 4th
5. Jimmie Johnson - I have faith that Johnson will be able to slice through the field on Sunday. He been solid all weekend long. In middle of final practice , chad reported Johnson was losing most of his speed in turn 2. Later in the practice , Johnson was complaining about being too loose. Johnson probably in store for a top 10 on Sunday.
My Overall Ranking: 6th
Other Good choices: Dale Jr Kenseth and Brad K
B:
1. Carl Edwards - Edwards is my top pick in this tier. I think he will offer the best chance for a win on Sunday. Edwards haven't been quite as good as his teammate Hamlin. But don't think he won't be a serious threat when it comes down it to. Edwards will roll off 5th and showed speed in every session. Atlanta fits Edwards driving style as well. Something I like about picking him.
My Overall Ranking: 5th
2. Kasey Kahne - Kahne is someone to watch out for! The 5 car could make some noise come Sunday. He have a car which should finish in the 6th - 10th range overall. The defending race winner will start from the 10th position and finished 2nd in final practice. He was pretty fast overall. His handling was a little off , but that shouldn't be too much of a issue. I am sure Keith will fix that during the race.
My Overall Ranking: 7th
3. Kyle Larson - Larson is a excellent pick for your fantasy team. I liked what Larson have shown so far this weekend. The 42 car posted the 4th best 10-lap average on Saturday and will roll from 6th. Larson will undoubtedly outperform my overall ranking , but I want to leave some ceiling for him. Larson can win on Sunday and I am confident in that. Larson finished 8th in his Atlanta debut in 2014!
My Overall Ranking: 9th
4. Jamie Mac - I am convinced Chip G have made JMac believe he is better than he actually is. Confidences can be a difference maker. Or it could be the result of better racecars on weekly basis. Either way I want more of this JMac! Jamie will start from 3rd and looks like a top 10 play , but I am smart enough to know to temper my expectations. If you played fantasy racing long enough , then you know what I mean. I have JMac as a top 15 option with top 10 upside.
My Overall Ranking: 13th
5. Paul Menard - Menard too deep of a sleeper for my taste , but wouldn't be the first time Menard surprised us with a top 10. Actually it would be typical Menard. Menard will start from 13th and I honestly see him finishing around that area. Maybe a little further back , but heck worth a shot I guess. Menard fell off too much in my opinion though on the long run. I ranked higher than I should've. He have more experience and/or better equipment than the next few drivers. In the end I decided to bump him up because of that.
My Overall Ranking: 14th
6. AJ Dinger - Watch for the Dinger! He someone who get overlooked pretty easily , but Atlanta might be his best unknown racetrack. Especially looking at Dinger from career point of view. I was surprised to see his career average around 17th place in 9 starts. So far this weekend , the Dinger have looked pretty good overall. He will start 11th on Sunday and posted the 6th fastest lap in final practice. I may have ranked him higher if it wasn't for his equipment level. I see least a top 20 for him. Wouldn't be shocked to see Dinger wheel home a top 15 at the checkers.
My Overall Ranking: 15th
Just missed: Dillon , Biffle , Truex jr and Smoke
C:
1. David Ragan- Debated who deserved the top spot in this tier. In the end , I like Ragan over Danica. Mainly because of the potential. Ragan I thought showed more promise throughout the weekend and will likely be a safer picker. Ragan probably a 20-ish type option , but wouldn't rule out a mid-teen result though.
My Overall Ranking: 21st
2. Danica Patrick- Its wouldn't shock me to see Danica finish ahead of Ragan. But it also wouldn't shock me to see her finish behind Ragan too. I like what Danica brings (value wise) as a fantasy option. This is consider one of her best racetracks. Depending on your league setup , Danica could make a terrific option. I have her around 20th at checkers.
My Overall Ranking: 22nd
3. Regan Smith - Of the three options in this tier , Smith is my least favorite overall. I am sure he will fine when it all said and done. But he starts deep in the field and was not very fast on the speed charts. His best 10 lap average was pretty terrible too. In Yahoo , I would pass on him. This might be our last opportunity to use him. But I wouldn't recommend him over either of the options above.
My Overall Ranking: 26th
Email: JeffNathan74@yahoo.com
Twitter - @JeffNathans
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Fantasy Nascar Sleepers & Busts (Atlanta)
Welcome to TimersSports
After going 5-for-5 on sleepers & busts last week. We have Atlanta up next and its already Wednesday. There a few test sessions on Thursday so we get a early look at Atlanta. But remember only X-amount of drivers will take part. So remember to keep track of that. Atlanta is a 1.5 mile slick worn-out racetrack. Its will be in the 40s all weekend long , so no doubt there will much faster speed. Than it would be its this race was held in the summer time (like last season). The great thing about Atlanta usually the tire-off is significant. Its will be obvious in practice whom have a contender-type car.
Sleepers -
Martin Truex Jr: I don't know what to expect out of the 78 , but I think they will have a similar year to 2013. I like what I saw out of their 1.5 mile program late last season. Since 2010 , Truex have a very good track record. Before last season 23rd place effort he finished 14th or better in 4 straight races. FRR finished 4th two years ago with Kurt Busch. 3 years ago? 13th with Smith. Truex is a such intriguing option because of the momentum on his side. Loved the speed he showed at Daytona. More importantly I think Truex is much more comfortable with this team. He have something to prove and a undervalued driver. If he shows speed in Thursday test , then he gonna make my Yahoo roster. Never too early to think outside the box.
Paul Menard: Everyone knows I have a fantasy nascar bromance with Paul Menard. Little piece of advice with Menard is use him early and often. You will get a lot of value out of him in first 15 races. Atlanta been a decent place for Menard. He never been a race-winning threat , but usually he an top 15 potential . With top 10 upside. Nothing special but he proven to surprise us with sneaky finishes in the past. I am not saying to force a start with him. But in Yahoo Fantasy Racing I might throw him on as a 4th option. Simply because his past early season success. Given you're convinced with your other options.Worst possible outcome? He's on your bench. Best case possible , he knocks off a top 12 and you skip to Las Vegas. Salary cap leagues , he probably holds little value due to his overpriced value tag.
Denny Hamlin: Hamlin is someone who doesn't get enough attention for being a great option here. I really like him. Honestly JGR isn't getting nearly enough attention. Guess everyone more focus on who will replace Busch. That's fine with me. This is the same team who place all their cars in the top 5 last season. Hamlin stands out because how good he been here (minus 2013 race) , Hamlin been one of the best drivers over past 3 season. In 2012 , Hamlin won and posted 141.0 driver rating after leading 105 laps. Excluding 2013 race , Hamlin have posted a driver rating above 95.0 since Spring of 2008 (9 races). In that span , 7 times his driver rating was above 100.0. I like Hamlin heading into Thursday test. Hoping for JGR will unload fast.
Busts -
Jamie Mac: Honestly I don't know what to expect from JMac! I liked what I saw last season from overall speed development. But no more Keith Rodden which is absolutely killer. I felt like he was a difference maker for JMac overall. Hard to feel good heading to Atlanta without him. He have a solid track record dating back to 2012 and decent other stats. But its will take awhile for him to get on same page with new crew chief. JMac will be waiting on the sidelines , until he proves himself as an asset with life after Rodden.
Joey Logano: I like Joey a lot this week , unfortunately he scares the heck out of me. Most obvious is the engine issues last week for Penske. They said it nothing to worry about , but would they actually tell us if there were? Nah me either. I am sure it was nothing , but Logano also have 1 win. Which will allow him to gamble more. Remember Dale Jr at Vegas in 2014? I rather just stay clear , plus he may be overvalued in certain games due to his Daytona win.
A lot of this article is just my thoughts & personal opinions.Kinda a bummer due to no real data to go on.
*Stats from Driver Averages.com
Email - briggs_garry48@yahoo.com
Twitter - @Garryy12
After going 5-for-5 on sleepers & busts last week. We have Atlanta up next and its already Wednesday. There a few test sessions on Thursday so we get a early look at Atlanta. But remember only X-amount of drivers will take part. So remember to keep track of that. Atlanta is a 1.5 mile slick worn-out racetrack. Its will be in the 40s all weekend long , so no doubt there will much faster speed. Than it would be its this race was held in the summer time (like last season). The great thing about Atlanta usually the tire-off is significant. Its will be obvious in practice whom have a contender-type car.
Sleepers -
Martin Truex Jr: I don't know what to expect out of the 78 , but I think they will have a similar year to 2013. I like what I saw out of their 1.5 mile program late last season. Since 2010 , Truex have a very good track record. Before last season 23rd place effort he finished 14th or better in 4 straight races. FRR finished 4th two years ago with Kurt Busch. 3 years ago? 13th with Smith. Truex is a such intriguing option because of the momentum on his side. Loved the speed he showed at Daytona. More importantly I think Truex is much more comfortable with this team. He have something to prove and a undervalued driver. If he shows speed in Thursday test , then he gonna make my Yahoo roster. Never too early to think outside the box.
Paul Menard: Everyone knows I have a fantasy nascar bromance with Paul Menard. Little piece of advice with Menard is use him early and often. You will get a lot of value out of him in first 15 races. Atlanta been a decent place for Menard. He never been a race-winning threat , but usually he an top 15 potential . With top 10 upside. Nothing special but he proven to surprise us with sneaky finishes in the past. I am not saying to force a start with him. But in Yahoo Fantasy Racing I might throw him on as a 4th option. Simply because his past early season success. Given you're convinced with your other options.Worst possible outcome? He's on your bench. Best case possible , he knocks off a top 12 and you skip to Las Vegas. Salary cap leagues , he probably holds little value due to his overpriced value tag.
Denny Hamlin: Hamlin is someone who doesn't get enough attention for being a great option here. I really like him. Honestly JGR isn't getting nearly enough attention. Guess everyone more focus on who will replace Busch. That's fine with me. This is the same team who place all their cars in the top 5 last season. Hamlin stands out because how good he been here (minus 2013 race) , Hamlin been one of the best drivers over past 3 season. In 2012 , Hamlin won and posted 141.0 driver rating after leading 105 laps. Excluding 2013 race , Hamlin have posted a driver rating above 95.0 since Spring of 2008 (9 races). In that span , 7 times his driver rating was above 100.0. I like Hamlin heading into Thursday test. Hoping for JGR will unload fast.
Busts -
Jamie Mac: Honestly I don't know what to expect from JMac! I liked what I saw last season from overall speed development. But no more Keith Rodden which is absolutely killer. I felt like he was a difference maker for JMac overall. Hard to feel good heading to Atlanta without him. He have a solid track record dating back to 2012 and decent other stats. But its will take awhile for him to get on same page with new crew chief. JMac will be waiting on the sidelines , until he proves himself as an asset with life after Rodden.
Joey Logano: I like Joey a lot this week , unfortunately he scares the heck out of me. Most obvious is the engine issues last week for Penske. They said it nothing to worry about , but would they actually tell us if there were? Nah me either. I am sure it was nothing , but Logano also have 1 win. Which will allow him to gamble more. Remember Dale Jr at Vegas in 2014? I rather just stay clear , plus he may be overvalued in certain games due to his Daytona win.
A lot of this article is just my thoughts & personal opinions.Kinda a bummer due to no real data to go on.
*Stats from Driver Averages.com
Email - briggs_garry48@yahoo.com
Twitter - @Garryy12
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Fantasy Nascar Early Rankings (Atlanta)
Welcome to TimersSports
Early Rankings -
1. Kevin Harvick
2. Brad Keselowski
3. Jeff Gordon
4. Joey Logano
5. Jimmie Johnson
6. Matt Kenseth
7. Carl Edwards
8. Denny Hamlin
9. Dale Jr
10. Ryan Newman
11. Kyle Larson
12. Kasey Kahne
13. Tony Stewart
14. Jamie McMurray
15. Clint Bowyer
16. Paul Menard
17. Greg Biffle
18. Martin Truex Jr
19. Regan Smith
20. Austin Dillon
21. Aric Almirola
22. AJ Dinger
23. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
24. Danica Patrick
25. Justin Allgier
26. Same Hornish Jr
27. Trevor Bayne
28. Ty Dillon
29. Casey Mears
30. David Ragan
*Feedback on Twitter is welcomed
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
Early Rankings -
1. Kevin Harvick
2. Brad Keselowski
3. Jeff Gordon
4. Joey Logano
5. Jimmie Johnson
6. Matt Kenseth
7. Carl Edwards
8. Denny Hamlin
9. Dale Jr
10. Ryan Newman
11. Kyle Larson
12. Kasey Kahne
13. Tony Stewart
14. Jamie McMurray
15. Clint Bowyer
16. Paul Menard
17. Greg Biffle
18. Martin Truex Jr
19. Regan Smith
20. Austin Dillon
21. Aric Almirola
22. AJ Dinger
23. Ricky Stenhouse Jr
24. Danica Patrick
25. Justin Allgier
26. Same Hornish Jr
27. Trevor Bayne
28. Ty Dillon
29. Casey Mears
30. David Ragan
*Feedback on Twitter is welcomed
Twitter - @CrazyKateNascar
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