Hello race fans! Well, I hate to say I was right, but, I was right! Kyle Busch and Matt Kenseth did not make it into the Chase. As shocking as that is to alot of people, it's really not all that surprising. The two of them have not had stellar performances over the last several weeks. In fact, with the exception of Kyle's win at Bristol in August, that team has struggled every week since then. Also, since Matt's season opening win at Daytona and the following week's win at California, that team hasn't done much all season. So, it's really not a surprise to see either one of them not contending for the Championship. However, the biggest shock of the night for me was how gracious Kyle was in his interview after the race. I was pleasantly surprised to see that he wasn't arrogant or down on his team. He actually sounded sincere, even though he had to be steaming mad on the inside. Way to go Kyle on a classy interview.

Congratulations to Denny Hamlin on finally winning at his home track! What a great race for the win and, also the great racing that took place with the guys trying to get those last few spots in the Chase. Brian Vickers did an awesome job those last few laps getting by Kyle and Sam Hornish Jr. to squeek his way into the Chase.

Now that the field is set, I am going to give my prediction on who I think will win the Chase for the Sprint Cup. Although I think Mark Martin is the sentimental favorite, I'm not sure he is consistent enough to pull it off. Jimmie Johnson certainly has the drive since he is going for a record 4th straight championship, but he has not had the car the last few weeks to contend for wins like he's had previously at this time of the year. Jeff Gordon would love to fulfill that "Drive for Five" dream, but he's another one that isn't as consistent as he needs to be. My favorite pick would have to be Denny Hamlin. He has the momentum going into the Chase with his win this past weekend and he's been solidly in the top 5 the last several weeks. However, I'm not quite sure they are where they need to be to win it this year. So, who is my pick? Tony Stewart. I know he hasn't run well the last few races, but who has better motive to win it than him. He's a first time car owner in his first year. Both of his cars made it into the Chase, and I think he would love to prove everyone wrong. No one expected him to win a race this year, much less win 3 (including the All-Star Challenge)and I know, no one ever thought he would be a top contender to win it all! So, that's who my pick is and I would love to know who you think will be at the head table in Las Vegas in December.

Good luck to all the Chase contenders starting this weekend in New Hampshire. Be safe and have a good race. I will be busy attending my mom's wedding this weekend. She is marrying a wonderful man after being a widow for the last 11 years. I love you mom and welcome to the family Bob.

See you at the races!