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One of the things I really enjoy about NASCAR is how quickly it all changes. Brad Keslowski led for 102 laps and going down the final 10 laps he was in the top 10. I really thought he might make a move on the restart with 2 laps left and be a top 3 finisher, instead in comes Kyle Larson, steals the lead, wins the race having only led for those two laps and Brad drops back to 17th place. It all changes on a dime.
What: Bass Pro Shop NRA Night Race
When: August 20th
Where: Bristol Motor Speedway
2016 Winner: Kevin Harvick
Track: Bristol Motor Speedway constructed in 1960, the Last Great Colosseum has its roots in authentic racing. This all concrete surfaced oval track features turns at 26-30 degrees with straights at 6-10 degrees. It's short at just over half a mile (0.533) and be prepared for some bumping to occur here. This makes it both amazing to watch and tough to predict as many racers get knocked out mid-race. The sound that emits from this course is amazing.
A Driver.
Kevin Harvick. His last 3 races at Bristol: 3rd place, 1st place and 7th place. He's had some lower finishes lately with a 17th place finish at The Glen and 13th place at Michigan, he can right the ship where he's comfortable.
B Drivers.
Clint Bowyer. 8th and 14th here last year, 2nd earlier this year, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the final 3
Trevor Bayne. Sitting at 19th in the Monster Energy Cup series points right now (right on the playoff cusp with 3 races to go), Trevor and Ricky Stenhouse are fighting for playoff spots for Roush Fenway Racing. He finished 11th here earlier this year and 5th and 12th last year. Ricky has also had success here, I think either play is smart.
C Driver.
Matt DiBenedetto. 19th here earlier this year. 6th and 17th here last year, this is a solid fill in for the C-League tri-fecta who are all venturing close to 0 starts remaining for me.
Dark Horse.
Daniel Suarez. If I had available starts aplenty among Daniel Suarez, Erik Jones AND Ty Dillon, I'm going with Daniel Suarez. That 37th place finish at Michigan, coupled with Erik Jones finishing 2nd knocked him down a bit. All three finished 15th, 16th and 17th last time here so it's a toss up but I think the fighters edge goes to Daniel Suarez to land a top 10 finish at Bristol.
Year to date stats:
A Drivers: Avg Finish 14th (38th percentile)
B Drivers: Avg Finish 15th (41st percentile)
C Drivers: Avg Finish 16th (45th percentile)
Dark Horse Drivers: Avg Finish 21st (57th percentile)