ESPN

Mark Garrow

  (9:59 AM)

Good morning everyone..it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood here in Martinsville so let's get this partaayy started!

Steve (tallassee, al)

WillCarl Edwards use his last car he won a race, this weekend?

Mark Garrow

  (10:00 AM)

Don't think it was the last car he won in, but it is the car he won the race with at Pocono..Understand, though, he's struggling.

Richard(Anahiem,Ca.)

Hey Mark,I have Biff(day one price) and Stewart. Hate to let go of Biff, but what about Smoke(if this seems late,it is friday night!)

Mark Garrow

  (10:00 AM)

I think you need to drop Bif today, but Stewart should be pretty good.

Mike (Clarksville TN)

Guru, I need one 24,11. I need two 18,6,26,88. I need one 44,28

Mark Garrow

  (10:02 AM)

I think the 24 is a little bit better than the 11, but both in good shape. In the other group definitely the 88 and then probably the 26. I would have said 6 until he crashed in practice yesterday...Then, I'd probably go with the 44.

Desparate (second place-ville)

Need a good week. Is 48,24,26,42... with either 11 or 20 gonna get it done. And which of the last two?

Mark Garrow

  (10:04 AM)

That's a desperate team but it is a different direction than most people would go..but add 11 and see what happens..48, 24, and 11 top-five material..26 top-10..42 top-15..

Egg (Memphis)

Guru -- with 5 races to go, I can only use Junior 2 more times, what are his best tracks for him down the stretch? U da man!

Mark Garrow

  (10:05 AM)

Atlanta and Texas..although I've got to tell you that Junior is one of my top-six picks today. He's in really good shape to run top-five today.

Joanie

Geez, One-and-Only True Guru, after all you've done for me with these chats, I forgot to send in the feedback email you asked for and cain't get into the archive to find the address! Do you still want these? Only way I cain think of to improve the show is to, say, double-to-quadruple your salary so you cain experience more job satisfaction (that always shows up positively in a person's work, you know, LOL!), but if someone besides you reads the feedback emails, I'd be more than happy to rave a bit about you to them....Seriously, I was doing pretty darn well before I found your chats, now I am rocking my leagues - these chats have made a real difference for the better.

Mark Garrow

  (10:07 AM)

Joanie for you and anyone else I'm still looking to get feedback and the e-mail address is tg2vt@aol.com...thanks for the props but please drop a line to above e-mail address and keep rocking your league.

Daryl (Madison, WI)

Hi guru! I'm pretty much set on having the 48,20, and 24, but was wondering who I should pair with them. 42 and 26, or 42 and 1 or 11 and 10? What do you think?

Mark Garrow

  (10:10 AM)

42 and 26 ..by just a little over 42 and 1..Truex is fast but trouble seems to find him here a little too much.

Chase (Philly)

Who's the better pick for today: Hamlin or Harvick? I have Johnson, Gordon, McMurray, and Montoya as the rest of my lineup.

Mark Garrow

  (10:10 AM)

Harvick is very good, but Hamlin is a little bit better.

Kevin, St clair shores,MI

Mrk need your help, need to have a good weekend. 24 or 48. Need 2 5,6,18, or 26, leaning twords the 5 and 26. Need 1 01 or 44, I'm thinking 24,5,26,44. Only have 2 more with the 48 should I save him or go for it? Thanks for the help.

Mark Garrow

  (10:12 AM)

I'm leaning towards 24 because Gordon needs the win more..but both are potential winners...I'd go 5 and 26 too...and then the 44..I think you can save 48 today without much harm because 24 is so good.

Wareagle! (Argo, AL)

31,48,24,5,42 or 31,24,48,11,8 How good is 6?

Mark Garrow

  (10:14 AM)

I think I'd go with the second team 24,48,11,31 are all in really good shape..If 8 can come home top-20 you should be in pretty good shape.

Wareagle! (Argo, AL)

31,48,24,5,42 or 31,24,48,11,8 How good is 6?

Mark Garrow

  (10:14 AM)

As for the 6, he was in good shape, but is now in a back-up and heading for the back of the pack...that drops his stock value today in a big way.

Wareagle! (Argo, AL)

Sorry, the 2nd team was bogus. How does 48,24,31,42,5 sound. Is 31 better than 11?

Mark Garrow

  (10:15 AM)

11 is a little better than 31.

Richard(Anahiem,Ca.)

Good morning Mark,Its Sat. and after two practices I am still perplexed by Biff. Do I keep him and hope for the best,since he should be good the last four,and I have him at 21.5,or move to another of your top guns? Thanks for any help you can give.

Mark Garrow

  (10:17 AM)

I think this is a race you unload "Bif"..I had him on my team and will unload...He could get lucky but a number of same value drivers will outperform him today..I'll worry about getting him back on my team next week.

Ed (Petersburg, WV)

Hey Guru, what does your gut say about the lineup of 48, 24, 11, 26, and 42? Looks like they were all strong in both practices and hope it translates to the race. What say you?

Mark Garrow

  (10:17 AM)

Shouldn't be too bad...Lock it in and let'er rip.

TIN CUP (SV, CA)

Good Morning, Mark!Currently have: 48, 16, 6, 83, 26Considering: 48, 16, 24, 26, 42I'd be losing +.7 on Ragan for GordonYour thoughts please and good luck in the race.

Mark Garrow

  (10:18 AM)

No-brainer to unload 6 for the 24..Need to also consider dropping Biffle too.

George (TX)

JPM,Ragan,Mears and Jamie Mac .... which of these two to start ? Jeff or Jimmy ? 01 or 44 ? Thanks Mark !

Mark Garrow

  (10:19 AM)

JPM and Jamie Mac..Jeff over Jimmy..44..

butternutts lenoir nc

41 or 43?

Mark Garrow

  (10:20 AM)

Ugly choices...I'd go with 43 and hope for the best.

butternutts lenoir nc

9 looked pretty smooth... is the 1 as good as his practice times show?

Mark Garrow

  (10:21 AM)

According to Paul Menard's crew chief Truex is very good. If he stays out of trouble he could come away with potentially a top-10 today.

butternutts lenoir nc

what scenario has the greater chance of a Marty payback... 20 vs 83 or 29 vs 99?

Mark Garrow

  (10:22 AM)

funny...but I'd pick 20 vs. 83..29 too good to mess it up going after a payback..

Richard(Anahiem,Ca.)

Hey Mark,In my question earlier about Biff,I neglected to mention that I have 48,24,20,and 16 with a prayer at slot five.I can exchange 20 for 11 and upgrade my prayer.What do you think?

Mark Garrow

  (10:23 AM)

I'd swap out 11 for 20..you'll need a prayer with Biffle too.

bowles: wichita falls, tx

which lineup do you like better, 48,24,11,31,70 or 48,24,11,6,1? thanks for all your help

Mark Garrow

  (10:24 AM)

I'd go with the first one..6 in a back-up is too much of a question mark to me..70 needs to run top-25 or better for this to work.

Janet (Ascutney VT)

HI Mark, Yes, I need your help again. Group A 24 or 31, Group B 5,6,12,or 42 and Group C 8 or 15. What are all the crew chiefs saying this week or the drivers?? Thank you for all your help, I am now 117 out of second in our group thanks to your help..

Mark Garrow

  (10:25 AM)

24...42 and 5...6 is in a back-up and 12 is junk according to Penske crew chiefs, and I'd probably lean towards the 8 over the 15.

Mike Provo, UT

OK Mark, I need some help.I have 16 locked in at 21.5, but think it's time to cut him loose. Got the 24 and 48, but which driver would be the best pick to replace the 16 who can go the distance in the next 5 races out of these, 18,88,07,20,29,11,17 and in what order?

megus

Mark, after practice, what's your top ten now?

Mark Garrow

  (10:27 AM)

I have my top picks and crew chief notes coming up in about 15 minutes..so stay tuned...

Linda Billings, MT

Hi Mark - thanks for all your help. In our local league (# of trades are limited). I have 24-48-20-26-01. Need 3 more of 07-17 and either 19 or 44 or 29-17 and either 19 or 44 or 11-17-41 or 16-29-41. What do you think? If its between 19 and 44, which one?

Mark Garrow

  (10:30 AM)

Linda..I'm not sure if I totally understand what you're looking for but 07 is very good would take him over 17...I'd take 44 over 19..29 over 17..17 and 41 so so but don't recoommend going there..same for 16 and 41..

Big Dog Mi

I need the best between the 24 and the 48 also need two drivers out of these four 88 18 26 1 and last but not least Reutimann or the 01. Also is Mark Martin racing next week?

Mark Garrow

  (10:31 AM)

I'm leaning towards and 24 over 48..but paper thin difference...88 and 1..and then 44...Yes, Martin is racing at Atlanta.

Bill, DE

Hey Mark, Is there any chance that Allmendinger can finish Top 20 today? Didn't look bad in practice. Who's best between AJ, Speed, Almirola?

Mark Garrow

  (10:33 AM)

I guess Allmendinger could finish top-20..but price is too high for the risk in my opinion, remembering again this is first race with a new team and AJ drove himself into a wreck at Charlotte trying too hard to get a job...Almirola in my opinion is the safest of these three picks.

Mary

Mark...have to kept one of these drivers...6,16,17,99.Which one should i kept???

Mark Garrow

  (10:35 AM)

wow...I guess I'd go with Edwards and hope for the best..but this could get ugly.

Beth WV

Mark of these drivers who do you like name 3 20-11-18-07-24. Thanks talk to you at 10:00am

Mark Garrow

  (10:36 AM)

24,11,..then a close one with the 20 and 07..Past experience and success here give a lean towards the 20.

Jeff NY

Mark I need a mid rage driver.. Who do you like 12-2-9-1-43-42 are any of these drivers cathing your eye. I like 26 he is on my team alreay that is why I did not put him in that group.

Mark Garrow

  (10:37 AM)

I like the 1 in this group the best..42 second choice.

Jordan (Kalamazoo,MI)

Hey Guru, I need some help for todays race. Would you take 31 or 11? Also two out of the following four: 9,26,1,6...and lastly 28 or 44?Thx always for the help!!!

Mark Garrow

  (10:37 AM)

11 just a little better than 31..1 and 26 in group 2...44 over 28.

Mike D. (New Lenox, IL)

Mark, is Jamie McMurray worth using as a 5th driver in the ESPN game this weekend? I know he has finished pretty well at Martinsville over his career? thanks a lot, keep up the great job

Mark Garrow

  (10:38 AM)

I think he is. He's got a decent record here and is the best of the Roush cars going into today's race.

Ken ( Delaware)

Good morning Guru. Can you give me your opinion on the best driver for today between the 6,26,43,5?

Mark Garrow

  (10:39 AM)

Think you have to go with 26 over 5..

Daniel(IN)

hey Mark, I have a question about Ragan. I know he's going to the back and everything due to his practice incident, but do you think he can grab a top 15 finish, or does he not stand a chance today? He was in this same situation at Bristol and finished top 10, what do you think?

Mark Garrow

  (10:41 AM)

It was easier to pass at Bristol than it will be here today. It's possible top-15 but don't see much more than that..Not sure that I even see that...One good thing is that by starting so far back he'll jump in early to get out of sequence and gain track position that way...

Steven(TX)

hey mark, need you to do some picking for me if you can. 11 or 24? 01 or 8? and if you can, 2 of these 4: 6-26-42-88. thanks a bunch, you rock!

Mark Garrow

  (10:42 AM)

I give 24 a little edge over 11..8 by a little over 01 although I think Smith could run potentially top-20..88 and 26 in last group.

tom - wisconsin

Can you pick the better cars from these categories???A - 48,11 (pick one)B - 1,6,9,26 (pick two)C - 8,44 (pick one)Thank you Guru

Mark Garrow

  (10:42 AM)

48...1 and 26..44

Ken (Hendersonville, NC)

Mark: After looking at all the speeds yesterdat to me it looks like the best budget pick is "Dinger"....your opinion please.

Mark Garrow

  (10:43 AM)

Again, I don't buy that..first time out with this team..flat track never been a strong suit for AJ either.

Mark Garrow

  (10:44 AM)

Going to take a minute now to put up our crew chief notes...be right back..

Mark Garrow

  (10:45 AM)

Hendrick Motorsports, Tony Eury, Jr., Crew Chief Dale Earnhardt, Jr...He said that happy went very well. The car was rotating well in the corners and had good forward bite, which are two must-haves here atMartinsville. Tony said he felt they were as good as 24 and 48..Felt those three were top-five. Also liked the 11 and 07.

Mark Garrow

  (10:46 AM)

Roush Fenway Racing, Larry Carter, Crew Chief Jamie McMurray...He was a little worried about car droppingoff after the "goodie" was run off a set of sticker tires. He said that might be a problem during longgreen runs today so they are making some adjustments this morning. He's also concerned about starting mid-packand is undecided if he'll pit out of sequence to gain track position. As for the other Roush cars, Cartersaid David Ragan was really good until he crashed, but the others 99,17, and 16 were really struggling. Cartersaid he thought they were best in the Roush camp but not sure if that was saying much. His top three are 24,48,and 88.

Mark Garrow

  (10:46 AM)

RCR, Gil Martin, Crew Chief Clint Bowyer...He said he was pretty happy with the way the car was running but allthe rubber put down on the track from the Truck race yesterday was a concern...Thought their car had really goodforward bite and felt like the 24 and 48 were only a little bit better...He also said Kevin Harvick happy about how his car was running and so was Jeff Burton even though he was 31st on speed rundown.

Mark Garrow

  (10:46 AM)

RCR,Todd Berrier, Crew chief Kevin Harvick...He said they have made no changes this weekend. At one point, swappeda frfront spindle, but Kevin didn't like it so they went back to what they rolled off the truck with. He said Kevincould really run low against the curb and get a good run off the corner.

Mark Garrow

  (10:46 AM)

DEI, Doug Randolph, Crew chief Paul Menard...He said after the top-five cars, which in his opinion were 1,24,48,11,and 20, there were about 25 cars running the same speed and they were one of those 25. He felt Martin Truex, Jr. one of the best cars here and they were really happy with how the #1 was running. As futor Regan Smith and AricAlmirola they were in about the same boat as Menard was with a decent but not great car. Randolph said there day would be decided by finding a way to get some better track position without losing a lap...I also talked to Dan the crew chief for Regan Smith and he said they could have a top-20 kind of day as long as they didn't get lappedearly. One thing playing in their favor is the fact they are starting so far back it will be a "no-brainer"to pit early and get out a sequence with the cars up front.

Mark Garrow

  (10:47 AM)

DEI, Tony Gibson, Crew Chief for Aric Almirola...Gibson says they have a decent car and a top 15 finish or better is possible. Almirola is out to learn as much as he can and keep the car out of trouble. He had a decent practice and learned a lot by following Jeff Gordon and Greg Biffle.

Mark Garrow

  (10:47 AM)

eam Red Bull, Kevin Hamlin, Crew Chief Brian Vickers...He said this track is one of their weaknesses. He thoughttheir car was okay but nothing to write home about. He liked the 24,48,11,88 and 20.

Mark Garrow

  (10:48 AM)

Joe Gibbs Racing, Mike Ford, Crew Chief Denny Hamlin...He said they were one of the top three and had a realgood chance to win here for the second time in a row...Didn't think he was better than 24 or 48, but was close.He said that Kyle Busch was really struggling and that the 20 was fast at times, but Tony wasn't really happyyet.

Mark Garrow

  (10:52 AM)

Having a problem getting in other crew chief notes..still trying..

Mark Garrow

  (10:58 AM)

In the meantime..my top six picks..24,48,11,88,20,29..next tier 07,31,1,26,5, and maybe the 9..

Mark Garrow

  (11:01 AM)

Budget picks...in order Reutimann 16.1...Montoya 16.3...Kvapil 16.0...Almirola 15.3..Regan Smith 14.2...Gilliland 15.1...Menard 15.7..Sorenson 15.4...

Mark Garrow

  (11:02 AM)

We're going to get back to the questions now and I'll have more crew chief notes fro you in a minute..

Commish (NYC)

Pick 2 of: 24, 48, 88 and 11

Mark Garrow

  (11:03 AM)

That's potentially your top-four..24, 48,11,88 is how I would rank them.

Mike (LA)

Mark - which of these guys have a chance at top 20 for today - Speed, raines, Schrader, Bliss, or McCumbee? Thanx

Mark Garrow

  (11:03 AM)

Raines and Schrader maybe...

Assassin (Southeast Texas)

Good (chilly) Morning Mark Two questions, who finishes higher Burton or Bowyer and is David Ragan still worth looking at? Good average speeds in both practices yesterday, but going to the back.Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (11:05 AM)

I'd go with Burton because he'll find a way to get to the end of this race unscathed and he's better on longer runs than 07, although not by much..I think Ragan is too much of a question mark today in a back-up and in the back of the pack...Goes long green early leaders will be breathing down his neck.

Hank (Atlanta, GA)

How do you see Speed finishing today?

Mark Garrow

  (11:06 AM)

I'm not sure I see him finishing..truck race yesterday will help...yellow bumper today though invitation to create a yellow flag.

Ken (Hendersonville, NC)

Mark: I have Biffle at +.9. Do you think it's worth trading him this week with Atlanta and Texas coming up.?

Mark Garrow

  (11:06 AM)

That's what I'm doing and just hoping for the best..

Commish (NYC)

Early thoughts on this weeks budget picks? 44? 8? 01?

Mark Garrow

  (11:07 AM)

I think the 44 is clear favorite in this group.

Darrel (Huntingtown,MD)

Hey Mark. Need one on the cheap this week. How would you rank these guys? 8*01*41*70*7*96*78. Thanks yet again.

Mark Garrow

  (11:08 AM)

8,01,96,41,70,7,78...that's what it feels like to me.

Keith Missoula Mt.

Morn Guru Do you still feel the same about the 5 car after happy hour as you did early in the week?

Mark Garrow

  (11:08 AM)

Yes, I think he could be a sleeper today.

Usher (ATL)

Thanks for all you do Guru...we all appreciate your insight and expertise. Trying to shake things up this week with a few unconventional picks. Please rand how you think these boys will finish: 24, 48, 6, 5, 26, 42, 44, 01 - Peace out...Thx

Mark Garrow

  (11:09 AM)

I'd rank these cars 24,48,26,5,42,44,6,01..Peace out...

Maria--upstate NY

Hi Mark--Hows this team look??18-20-11-24-01Thank you sir!!

Mark Garrow

  (11:10 AM)

I don't think the 18 is going to fare that very well today..20,11,24 good choices though..01 might not be bad either ..maybe gets you a top-20..

Bob(NC)

Guru10,66,15,8 or 70?

Mark Garrow

  (11:11 AM)

I'd lean towards 8..

Dan (Boyd, WI)

Rank these four: 88,20,11,24 Thanks.

Mark Garrow

  (11:11 AM)

24,11,88,20..

Greg (Des Moines, IA)

Hey Mark...Hamlin or Dale Jr. today? Thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (11:12 AM)

Both are really good, but I give Hamlin a slight edge.

Travis (Spokane, WA)

Mark, great job!!! So is it safe to say ditch the Rousch cars this week?

Mark Garrow

  (11:12 AM)

That's the direction I'm heading..

Mark Garrow

  (11:13 AM)

Here is more of the crew chief notes..

Mark Garrow

  (11:13 AM)

Red Bull Racing, Jimmie Elledge, Crew Chief for Scott Speed...Elledge says the car is okay but starting from the back is not good. A top 20 or better is possible however he has only run a truck series race here. The good news is that in practice he was not abusing the carand his laps were smooth.

Mark Garrow

  (11:13 AM)

Yates Racing, Cully Barraclough, Crew Chief for David Gilliland...Cully says they rolled off the truck pretty good and practice was decenthowever they will have to use pit strategy to move up. He feels like they have a top 15 car. Travis Kvapil is pretty happy and has a top 15 car aswell. His favorite is the 24.

Mark Garrow

  (11:14 AM)

Bill Davis Racing, Tommy Baldwin, Crew Chief for Dave Blaney...Baldwin says the 22 car is just fair...nothing special. They were consistent but the car was not fast nor was it slow. He believes they have a topo 20 car. This is a new chassis for Blaney but starting way back hurts.

Mark Garrow

  (11:14 AM)

Haas CNC Racing, Booy Barker, Crew Chief for Scott Riggs...Booty says they have a 15th to 20th place car. he says they tend to run well here but somthing always happens whether it is a brake issue, battery or a broken part. His favorites are the 24, 48, 11, 88 and 29.

Mark Garrow

  (11:14 AM)

Gillette Evernham Racing, Rodney Childers, Crew Chief for Elliott Sadler...Rodney says the 19 did not look too good on the time sheet but they will bebetter in the race.They were focusing on race runs and not trying to post a fast lap. The car was a little loose in and tight in the middle of the corners sothey will make a few minor changes. He feels like they have a 10th to 15th placecar. Kasey Kahne has a good car...perhaps a tick better than Sadler. Kahen has a potential top 10 car. Childers favorites are the 48, 24 and 20.

Mark Garrow

  (11:14 AM)

Penske Racing, Pat Tryson, Crew Chief for Kurt Busch...Pat simply said that we suck today. They are putting Ryan Newmans set up in their car. Not that Newman is much better because Tryson said neither car is verygood. He says they are not even a top 15 right now.

Mark Garrow

  (11:14 AM)

Hendrick Motorsports, Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief for Casey Mears...Alan is optimistic about their chances today. Practice went well and he thinksif everything goes well they can finish at or near the top 10.

Mark Garrow

  (11:15 AM)

Ganassi Racing, Brian Patti, Crew Chief for Jan Pablo Montoya...Brian believes they have at least a top 15 car but they have been frustratedlately as they have suffered three DNFs in their last four races. Reed Sorensen has a decent car as well and has top 15 possibilities. His favorites are the 24, 48, 07, 20 and 11.

Mark Garrow

  (11:15 AM)

Now back to the questions...

Gary (Lexington KY)

Lock this? 48/24/11/1/5

Mark Garrow

  (11:15 AM)

I could live with that team..good luck.

Mike (Los Angeles)

Mark - 5, 44, or 42 to round out my lineup?

Mark Garrow

  (11:16 AM)

Tough call..I'd rank them 5,44,42....

Dom (Pittsburgh, PA)

Mark "The Guru" really need your advice my man. Thanks for all the help!!!! Pick one 24,11. Pick two 6,9,26,12. Pick one 8,28. Do you think ragan will be good in his backup starting from the back?

Mark Garrow

  (11:18 AM)

24..26,9...8 and 28 is a coin-flip..forced to make a choice...28..

boomer wichita falls, tx

good morning mark,, could use your help on pick,,, sadler or ragan, tks have a grand day

Mark Garrow

  (11:19 AM)

I'd go with Sadler..but neither of these guys really set my heart aflame..

ray gordon eeid beaumont tx 77710

question to espn/nascar/GUIRU MARK GARROW AT 11.15 AM HI MARK WHICH IS BETTER TRACK IN VIRGINIA RICHMOND OR MARTINSVILLE

Mark Garrow

  (11:19 AM)

Both are great..but for better races I'd pick Richmond.

Bea (Canada)

For my league here how do the following groups look.(48,24,9,42,66),(07,24,1,5,01),(48,20,1,42,66) and (31,11,1,26,01). Are these drivers worth keeping. Last one in each group hard to pick Had to choose from (01,41,55,22,66,10 and 7). Who would you sugest from these. Thank you

Mark Garrow

  (11:20 AM)

Each of your three teams has major question marks..but middle teams feels less risky to me...I'd try 01 and hope for the best..

Ryan Buckhead

Guru: Need 2 out of... 26, 42, 5, 6. Also need 1 from 44 and 01. Thanks for all the help this season.

Mark Garrow

  (11:21 AM)

5 and 26..44

Mish (FL)

Mark- Any chance Truex or Burton can finish top 5...1 or 31

Mark Garrow

  (11:21 AM)

I think Burton has an chance to run top-five..Truex feels more like potential top-10.

Justin(wv)

kahne or ragan

Mark Garrow

  (11:22 AM)

Kahne

trey (raleigh,nc)

McMurray or Truex?

Mark Garrow

  (11:22 AM)

McMurray..but just a smidge...

Chris (MN)

Would you use JR here today for the last time or roll the dice with Kyle Busch or Ragan?

Mark Garrow

  (11:23 AM)

If that's the choice Junior will outscore 18 and 6 by a wide margin..This might be as good a place to blow out final Junior pick.

David (Madison, MS)

Please rank the following 9,12,18,43.

Mark Garrow

  (11:24 AM)

9,18,12,43

robert (Cheyenne)

Guru, sorry for the public on here asking you the same question 8 out of 10 times. Anyways, long runs today, will we have them and who was the best on them? Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (11:25 AM)

24 and 48 and 11 best yesterday in that category..but 31 with Jeff Burton was off the radar in the final practice working on long green set-up and Burton really, really likes the way his car feels.

Gary (Lexington KY)

Thanks Mark and a reminder to everyone to send a note to tg2vt@aol.com regarding how much we appreciate this chat. Good Luck.

Mark Garrow

  (11:26 AM)

Thanks..I'm using feedback this week so any other notes would be much appreciated..

Question of the day (sac, cal)

This is my lineup 88,48,11,24, 84...do i take the risk? Im leading my current ESPN group by 200 points and the person in third is 400+ points back, but i will only accept 1st this year

Mark Garrow

  (11:26 AM)

Seems to me with that kind of lead can throw the hail mary with Speed..you should be close to 700 points with the other four..so give it a shot..

Mark (Nashville, TN)

Mark, which is the better combo 26, 42 or 44, 5? Thanks for your advice you always come through for me.

Mark Garrow

  (11:27 AM)

I'm thinking 44 and 5..but both will be close points-wise to each other.

Crispy Candyland

Mark thanks for the help pick 1, 24 or 48, have 1 pick left on both. Pick 2 26, 88,6,5, 1 pick left on 88. Pick 1 01, 44

Mark Garrow

  (11:28 AM)

24...88,26..44..

Jen (OH)

Hi! After 2 bad weeks in a row, I need a really good week. Which gives me the best shot: using the 48,24,11 with ... 5 and 1, 88 and 21, or 29 and 77?

Mark Garrow

  (11:29 AM)

I'd go with the 5 and 1..should be better on balance than the 88 and 21 or 29 and 77..

John (Marietta, Ga)

Best budget pick 44 or 42?Also which team you like better:24,48,11,42,26or 24,48,11,88, and low driver (Speed or Schrader?)Thanks as always, you rock!

Mark Garrow

  (11:29 AM)

44..I like the first team better..feels a little safer to me.

Dirk Hunter (NOLA)

Mark, which way should I go: 48, 11, 24, 88, 70 or 48, 24, 11, 1, 5?

Mark Garrow

  (11:30 AM)

48,24,11,1,5

Andy Cincy OH

Guru, any chance the 17 surprises with a top 5 today? Does the 48 finish outside the top five by playin it safe?

Mark Garrow

  (11:30 AM)

No and No..sorry...

Ryan Buckhead

Guru, after seeing your top picks, should I use Mears over JPM???

Mark Garrow

  (11:31 AM)

I like Mears a little better.

Bea Griffith Saint John,NB. Canada

Hi Mark, Just heard 6 is starting atthe back so who would you pick between the following 8,12,1,9, and second group need one of these 01,66,22,10 to go with 31 and 11. Thanks a lot. Your #1

Mark Garrow

  (11:32 AM)

1...01...my number 1 is 24 just a tick over 48.

Courtney (Sun Prairie, WI)

Allmendinger seemed consistently fast in the 10 car during all practices, why not a little love for him?

Mark Garrow

  (11:34 AM)

He's never done well here before...his week with a brand new team...didn't handle the pressure last week at Charlotte very well because you drove himself right into the middle of wreck..has to really guard against driving too hard to land a job for next season..I think other drivers will use him for caution flags...those are all the reasons I have...lol...

Greg Biffle

Stop telling everybody to drop me, I swear I will run top 5 today.

Mark Garrow

  (11:35 AM)

You know I love you man...but there is no way you're going to run top-five...no way..concentrate on getting a top-15 and then see what happens...

Ryan Buckhead

Mark, I need to start two from these today... JMac, JPM, Mears, and Ragan. Also, should I roll with Reutimann or Regan Smith? Thanks for the help.

Mark Garrow

  (11:35 AM)

Mears and Jamie and 44..

Mark Garrow

  (11:36 AM)

some people have asked for my team this week..So give me a second and I'll make my choice..be right back to take more questions..

Mark Garrow

  (11:40 AM)

Alright...here's what I'm going to do with my team this week..I'm going with 24,48, and 11...I talked up Casey Mears at the beginning of the week and Regan Smith so I'm going to put my money where my big mouth is on those two, hoping going a different direction will help me pick up some ground..

scott

will newman do better then kahne

Mark Garrow

  (11:40 AM)

No

chris,paradise ca.

what is with the rain during qualifying? I CANT TAKE IT ANY MORE!!!!

Mark Garrow

  (11:41 AM)

I hear that...every fourth race on average we get rained qualifying...that stinks!

Frank (Boston)

Hi Guru, does McMurray's crew chiefs comments give you pause about putting him in a l/u today. Doesn't sound like they feel great about their car on long runs

Mark Garrow

  (11:42 AM)

They are better than he's letting on..plus to be perfectly honest thought he was trying to mess with my mind this morning a little bit all the way around..

Rob (Elkhart, IN)

Which do you like better 48,24,11,88,70 or 48,24,11,26,5? I am leaning toward the first.

Mark Garrow

  (11:43 AM)

I'm leaning towards the second one..26 and 5..should outscore 88 and 70.

Cam (NC)

Mark, I have 24,48,88,11,96. I know schraeder is a stretch and probably wont run well...but isnt it worth the risk to get probably the top 4 cars in the race today? Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (11:45 AM)

I said earlier this week that Schrader might be worth the price for a top-25..He's pretty strong on short tracks and this is Hall of fame team Raines finished 14th with a year ago..Didn't list Schrader on my budget picks but more I think about it I probably should have for the reasons I listed above.

Carl Edwards (Columbia, MO)

So if Jamie Mac's crew chief is messing with your mind, am I better than anyone's letting on today?

Mark Garrow

  (11:46 AM)

Maybe a little...sneak an 8th to 13th place finish and head for the gate without making anyone else mad and it will be a good day and no chatting with Matt Kenseth again as you leave..that didn't go well a year ago did it?..lol...

Mark Garrow

  (11:46 AM)

Maybe a little...sneak an 8th to 13th place finish and head for the gate without making anyone else mad and it will be a good day and no chatting with Matt Kenseth again as you leave..that didn't go well a year ago did it?..lol...

Daniel: (Owensboro, KY)

Mark, would you take the 17 or 9? Haven't heard much about the 17. Thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (11:46 AM)

No I wouldn't do that.

what about ...

24/48/88/5/26 ?

Mark Garrow

  (11:47 AM)

Not bad.

could you live with this ?

48/11/24/1/42 ?

Mark Garrow

  (11:47 AM)

Yes I could.

Dog

Hey Mark, I need one for my pick-em--18-88-31-1-5-9-42. Thanks!!

Mark Garrow

  (11:47 AM)

88

Dirk Hunter (NOLA)

Mark, one more ? Which pair is better: 88 and 26 or 11 and 1?

Mark Garrow

  (11:48 AM)

thin margin again..11 and 1.

Ryan Buckhead

Projected finish for the 42 car???

Mark Garrow

  (11:49 AM)

I think he's top-15..10th -15th..maybe..

D.J. (Vero Beach, FL)

Mark- need two groups of four for potential top 5's. I have 24,48,11,20 and 48,31,88,29. Do you think those are okay or should I change the 20 and 29 between the two groups. Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (11:50 AM)

I'd leave them..

justn

hey mark,i need 1 johnson or gordon. need 2 jr,kahne,ragan and mcmurray. need 1 reutimann or kvapil

Mark Garrow

  (11:51 AM)

Gordon..Junior - McMurray...44..

Mike (LA)

Mark - Is Mears better than JPM and Reutimann? Thanx

Mark Garrow

  (11:52 AM)

I think he'll finish a little better yes.

OJ Simpson

I'm inocent!!! Honest!!

Mark Garrow

  (11:53 AM)

Relax OJ and you're going to be there awhile and I hope you place fantasy racing with us every week...you'll have some time for the next oh..20 or 30 years right?

Daniel: (Owensboro, KY)

Sorry Mark. I meant to ask would you drop the 17 and add the 9. I have 17, considering dropping for 9. Thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (11:54 AM)

I would do that..can't see 17 doing much..

trey (raleigh,nc)

Which pair should I go with, guru? (88 and 96) or (26 and 5)

Mark Garrow

  (11:54 AM)

It's not sexy but I'd go 26 and 5.

Daniel: (Owensboro, KY)

Mark, 99 or 88? 17 or 9? 16 or 11? thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (11:55 AM)

88..9,11

Mark Garrow

  (11:55 AM)

88..9,11

Donnie (NC)

88 or 29 and by how much....i did see the 29 in the car fighting the wheel but wondering?

Mark Garrow

  (11:55 AM)

88 is almost as good as his teammates 24 and 48..that's where I'd go.

Bryce (NH)

Oh great one: 88 or 20 today ??Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (11:56 AM)

I'm leaning towards 88.

Ryan Buckhead

I'm in second place trying to gain. If I know 1st place is starting the 44, should I start the 01 in hopes of gaining a few points? I also have the 44, so I could just cancel him out.

Mark Garrow

  (11:56 AM)

If you can add another big dog by going 01 then give it a try..If you can only add a "tweener" than stick with the 44.

Brent (Omaha)

I have to use either the 28 or 15 this week. Who looks better?

Mark Garrow

  (11:57 AM)

I'd go with 28.

steve

18-88-9-1 which two

Mark Garrow

  (11:57 AM)

88 and 1

Crispy (Candyland)

Need your help Mark pick 1 24 or 48, 1 pick left on both. Pick 2 26, 88, 6, 5. 1 pick left on 88. Pick 1 01 or 48. Thanks for your help

Mark Garrow

  (11:58 AM)

24...88,5..44..

Juice

Man, is Ryan Buckhead your fav?? he asks 97 questions every week!!

Mark Garrow

  (11:59 AM)

No favorites...just trying to answer questions late that pop up as quickly as I can..

stormy seguin, tx

good morning, guru,, need a pick between s riggs, or r smith, please,,,

Mark Garrow

  (12:01 PM)

I'd go with Smith..

Shawn in Virginia

Hi Mark! Thanks again for putting up with all of us every week. In my scrubby bottom feeding C group I need one of the following. Please rank them if you would. 8 28 44

Mark Garrow

  (12:02 PM)

44,28,8 is how I would rank them.

steve stuart fl

07 31 or 5

Mark Garrow

  (12:04 PM)

I'd lean towards the 31, 07 and 5 is how I would rank them.

Joe (WI)

Hows this for a team this weak? 88,48,24,26,5

Mark Garrow

  (12:06 PM)

I can live with that team.

Juice

just kidding Guru, u rock man. wasn't trying to tick you off. I LOVE YOU MAN!!

Mark Garrow

  (12:07 PM)

back at you Juice!

Ed (Evanston, IL)

Need one: 55, 8, 01, 96, 41, 66, 70?

Mark Garrow

  (12:07 PM)

I went with 01 hoping he'd be top-20..

Crispy

Mark first you said to pick 26 over 5 now you are saying 5 over 26. my picks were 24 or 48 26, 88, 6, or 5. 01 or 44. So 26 or 5 thanks

Mark Garrow

  (12:08 PM)

I have been influenced a bit by 5's crew chief..close call to begin with..

Dago Red

MarkNeed a solid finish (don't need to knock it out of the park). Going with 24, 48, 29, 5, 26. I would step back from either the 24, or the 48 to pick up a Burton and improve my Mears pick a little. Good idea?Dago

Mark Garrow

  (12:10 PM)

That team should be pretty good..if you backed away from the 24 for the 31 you need to be able to make a fairly large upgrade from the 5 like the 11..if not hold tight..

Daniel: Owensboro, KY)

Thanks for your help Mr. Garrow! Here is what I came up with. What do you think? 88, 48, 20, 31, 24, 11, 9, 26

Mark Garrow

  (12:10 PM)

It's Mark or Guru..dad is Mr. Garrow..lol...not a bad team to go to war with..good luck today..

Mike Provo UT

So Mark, what's your top 10 now?

Mark Garrow

  (12:12 PM)

24,48,11,88,20,31,29,07,1,5

justin

Help me out Mark! 9 or 26?

Mark Garrow

  (12:12 PM)

I'm thinking 26.

Wareagle! (Argo, AL)

26 or 42?

Mark Garrow

  (12:13 PM)

26..

Rock Arlington, Wa

I have the 24, 48, 44, Please pick one11, 29 Pick one 1, or 26.Thanks for your expertise

Mark Garrow

  (12:14 PM)

11..1

Mark Garrow

  (12:15 PM)

Folks got to go...been on for over 2:15..hope I've helped your line-ups today..and it's time to see if I'm brilliant or a dimwit..lol....Good luck and we'll talk to you again Wednesday...Have a great day..the Guru has left the building...And please if you want please take a minute to give me some feedback at tg2vt@aol.com..Thanks.!