ESPN

M.Rozier ( NE )

Guru pick 2 out of this group ! 12,1,26 and 5. Jamie Mac did very good in practice as well as Casey did. But the cars that scare me to start them is the 12 and 26. What does the almighty Guru say !

Mark Garrow

  (12:29 PM)

Good morning everyone...let's get the partaaayyyy started!

Mark Garrow

  (12:31 PM)

M. Rozier..miss hit key...safest picks in that group in my opinion are Casey Mears and Jamie Mac, who's on roll and now finishing races..Truex is potential top-10 too in my opinion and you don't get too burned by him..Newman's up and down..to "iffy" for me.

T.Gill ( Lincoln, Nebraska )

Two questions Mark .... AJ or the 44 ? 24 or 48 ? Thanks.

Mark Garrow

  (12:32 PM)

Take the 44 ove the 10.. and 48 over 24..48 is faster and can run potentially top-five or better..24 feels more like a sixth to 10th place car going in.

Incognito (The Garage!)

Alright Guru! Need you to make a few choices here. First, 99and8 or 24and11? Second, 48-24-11-8-47 or 48-99-8-26-10? Thanks for being my General Manager this year.

Mark Garrow

  (12:35 PM)

99 or 8 is a toughie..both make my top-six..This is last race for Martin at DEI and he wants to go out in a blaze of glory..What I did with my team this week, just so you know, I dropped Johnson and Edwards and used money to try and go different direction than everyone else..Martin is part of that plan...I'd take the 11 over the 24..I think your second team is the safest..but AJ's struggling a little bit but could still run top-20..if he does that and JMac comes through with a top-10 you should be in good shape..

The Man (IL)

Hey Mark - should we believe in the 26 this week? Looked pretty good in qualifying and practice.

Mark Garrow

  (12:36 PM)

I think he is...I added him to my team and I think he should be no worse than top-15 and should run top-10.

bowles: wichita falls,tx

trying to hold on, who do you like better? 48,99,11,44,10 or 48,99,8,26,44? thanks for all you help!

Mark Garrow

  (12:37 PM)

I think you're second team has better balance..11 is better than the 8 maybe but both make my top-six..44 is potential top-10 to 15 but I don't see that with the 10...second team could all run top-10 and that would put up a big number..

ate-up - somerset, ky

waaaz-up guru man,,, I need sum help I am -27 points out of 1st. I need 10 drivers, so far I have the 48, 99, 24, 88, 8, 16, 11, 31. I was thinking 26, 1, 29, 07 what do you think? I need this win money to help my granny out,,, she needs a new roof. - thanks

Joe Spring Lake ,NJ

What are your thoughts on Tony Stewarts terrible season?

Mark Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

You're right it hasn't been great..but he could get a little right today..people in the garage swear he should be in my top-six despite starting 29th..this is a very good track for him..I'd be totally shocked if he finished outside the top-10..and according the insiders has a real shot at running top-5.

Mike [Memphis Tn.]

Hi Mark I currently have 48 99 8. Which 2 should I add 11 and 21 or 5 and 10 ? Thanks for all your help!!!!!!

Mark Garrow

  (12:41 PM)

I can't resist I'm heading to the 5 and 10 store...

Da Rattler, Roanoke, In

Easy one for ya GURU. Pick 2 : ( 1,26,5,6 ). Thats the order I likem, how about you ??????

Mark Garrow

  (12:41 PM)

I'd go 5 and 26 but 1 shouldn't hurt you..only guy to stay away from totally is 6..Ragan's record here not good and he's not running all that great.

Victor E. Lapp (Checkerville, AZ)

Trying to get the checkered flag on the season... Guru... Big thanks to YOU for being my crew chief this season. Would you plase rank my guys to ensure I extend my lead? 48, 24, 88, 16, 8, 1, 44, 28. Thanks again for a great season... hope we dont blow an engine on the final 2 laps (of the season).

Mark Garrow

  (12:43 PM)

48,8,24,1,44,16,28..and thanks for the props..

JAG (Plainview, MN)

How is Menard and Allmendinger looking for the race or should I say who's going to be better?

Mark Garrow

  (12:44 PM)

Menard's not in bad shape..He'll be one of the top budget picks..My problem with him is that he has a hard time finishing as well as he runs inside of races...Allmendinger feels a little safer to me among those two and he's probably top-20 material..

Richard(California)

Good morning Mark, I use the Wed. chat to see what to look for on the weekend. Does the Fri. and Sat. action modify your top 20 picks? The 2,8,and 1 had good practices on Sat., not so much the 24 and 31.If you modified, please share. Thanks again for the great job you for all the "players"!

Mark Garrow

  (12:45 PM)

24 and 31 didn't set the world on fire but both are still potential top-10..8 is in realy good shape..1 and 2 not bad either.

Jon, Northwestern Oregon

Hi-yo Mark, what do you think of this team???48-18-8-26-44

Mark Garrow

  (12:46 PM)

Not too bad...all have a chance to run top-10...48 and 8 look like top-five material..

Mike (Clarksville TN)

Guru, Need one 48,99. Need two 18,16,1,8. Need one 44,15. Thanks for the help.

Mark Garrow

  (12:47 PM)

Take the 48...99 will probably be the pick next week..8, and 18...44

Bill (Hooksett, NH)

Good afternoon from NH !! Going for the kill this week. Please rate the following two teams: 99/48/8/26/44 or 99/48/11/8/347. Compare the 8 to the 83 and 1.Also what's up with Dinger ?? Great qualifying but sub-par practices. Thanks Mark !!

Mark Garrow

  (12:48 PM)

I like the balance on the first team better than second..although second team is all potential top-five..and if 47 comes top-25 might be in pretty good shape..8 is better than both the 1 and the 83..and that's the order I'd rank those guys..

Kevin, St Clair Shores, MI

Mark who is better this week 24 or 48? Need 2 1,6,18 or 88. Need 1. 10 or 44.Thanks,enjoy the race,wish I could be there in the warm weather, it's 40, windy and just cold in the "D".

Mark Garrow

  (12:49 PM)

48..18,88...44..and sorry about the chill!

Daryl (Madison, WI)

Hey Mark, right now I have 48,11,17,8, and 44. Do you think I should trade the 44 away for the 01, and have 48,11,17,88,01 OR 48,11,18(or others),8,01?

Mark Garrow

  (12:51 PM)

I think if you swapped out someone for the 17 on the first team you'd be in pretty good shape..maybe teammate JMac...or a Jeff Gordon or Dale Jr...might be a good upgrade of the 17 if they fit in your cap..17 won't kill you though..Kenseth should have a shot at a top-10..

Gary (Lexington, KY)

Morning Mark, Busch the elder, or Mears?

Mark Garrow

  (12:52 PM)

Mears has been a take it to the bank top-15 week in, week out for about seven weeks now..I like his consistency over Mr. Busch.

Rock Arlington, Wa

Ok Guru, Got it down to the 1,12,2,26 and maybe the 5. I need one rate me in order please and help me take home the Trophy. I'm 7 points out of first

Mark Garrow

  (12:54 PM)

26,1,5, 2,12,

Rick (CA)

Burton or Truex?

Mark Garrow

  (12:55 PM)

I don't think either one really hurts you, but going in Truex is a little better..31 crew isn't sure what they've got..think they'll eventually be able to swing perhaps a top-10.

Marshall (San Diego)

Hey Carknack, can't believe you called it for Calzaghe! Now racing; please help with one pick from each of these groups: 55,22,77,01,66 and 43,42,5,15, 44. Thanks Mark!

Mark Garrow

  (12:59 PM)

Wasn't even close with Calzaghe..So don't ever doubt the great CarKnack!..lol...call me nuts..but Blaney in the first group...5 is money top-15 or a little better..44 and 42 shouldn't be too bad either..but 5 really nice and safe.

Michelle (Stuart FL)

Rank'em please 48,88,99,24,11,18,29,16

Mark Garrow

  (1:00 PM)

11,48,99,29,24,18,88,16...that's how I see it going in..

Dom (Pittsburgh, PA)

Mark the GURU really need your help!!! Thanks!!Pick one: 24, 11.Pick Two:6, 5, 12, 26 Pick one: 44, 15

Mark Garrow

  (1:01 PM)

11...5 and 26...44..and good luck.

Jason from Memphis TN.

44 or 15.DEI has good flat track program but 44 was good at Richmond

Mark Garrow

  (1:01 PM)

44....15 has trouble finishing races strong..something always seems to happen.

Darryl(IL)

howdy mr. Garrow. need you to do some picking if you can. Hamlin or Jimmie? Menard or Reuitmann? and if you can, pick 2 of the following 4 drivers: 1, 6, 18, 26. thanks for all the help guru!

Mark Garrow

  (1:02 PM)

I dropped Jimmie and Carl..and put 11 on my team as I went in another direction..Reutimann...18 and 26.

pj in duluth,mn

What do you think about the 48,8,11,44,and 1? Or do I trade out Truex for Jmac?THanks

Mark Garrow

  (1:03 PM)

Team looks in pretty good shape..1 doesn't hurt you but I believe JMac is a little bit of an upgrade.

Shreveport,La

Line up on ESPN fantasy league this week is 48,24,11,8 and 10.Guru, what do you think?

Mark Garrow

  (1:04 PM)

Not bad..but I think you can do a little bit better and set a better floor than the 10, who isn't terrible..but all I see for him today is a top-20.

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

Did you get my praise and questions before the show?

Mark Garrow

  (1:04 PM)

No...if anyone would like to give an opinion on my services to ESPN fantasy..please drop an e-mail to tg2vt@aol.com...Thanks.

Ed (Petersburg, WV)

The One and Only Guru, would you rank these two sets of drivers for me after the practices and talking to the crew chiefs...1, 2, 5, 8, 26 and 10, 44,47? Thanks a million!!!

Mark Garrow

  (1:05 PM)

8,26,5,1,2...44,10,47...and you're welcome a milion!

mike (LA, CA)

mark - im trying to nurse a decent lead going into last 2 races, just like JJ ...who to go with as my A driver, 24 or 11 ... hamlin was fast in happy hour, but gordon was working on gas mileage runs as were many others, so im not sure how much the speed results from happy hour matter ...24 or 11 - which is better and which is safer? thanks mark!

Mark Garrow

  (1:06 PM)

11...Gordon might be a little safer, but I think Hamlin makes a run at winning this thing and I don't think Gordon can.

Frank (Boston)

If you don't like Dinger as your basement pick, do you see anyone at 17 Mil and under that you do have faith in?? Thanks Guru

Mark Garrow

  (1:07 PM)

I think 17 million and below...safest pick is Reutimann..

Mark Garrow

  (1:07 PM)

I think 17 million and below...safest pick is Reutimann..

Matt (Albuquerque, NM)

Guru, please rank 5, 26, 1. Also, will Biffle finish better this weekend or next? Thanks for all the advice this season, I've got a JJ-like lead in my league and looking to stay strong.

Mark Garrow

  (1:08 PM)

26,1,5..all three in pretty good shape..I like the 5's price to create some cap room..Biffle will finish better next week than today..

Larry(NC)

Mark GuruAmbrose or A.J. today?

Mark Garrow

  (1:09 PM)

AJ's a little safer pick in my opinion because Ambrose already has a ride for next season and just wants to keep his nose clean and not get anyone's out of shape.

Larry(MI)

hey mark, who looks better between Johnson and Hamlin.

Mark Garrow

  (1:10 PM)

Tough call..and you can't lose sticking with Johnson..but I dropped him this week in favor of Hamlin to head another direction..

Justn

Mark your advice last week was perfect!!thanks. who would you take? i need 2-truex,mcmurray,ragan and newman. need 1-reut or kvapil?

Mark Garrow

  (1:10 PM)

Truex and McMurray

Bill, DE

Hi Mark,I hope you are getting a lot of good information from the garage. When I looked at practice speeds, the drivers were all over the place from one practice to the next. I have a tough salary cap to work with. Who's better between Riggs, Reutimann, and Ambrose? LaBonte, McMurray or Montoya?Which team....29,11,12,83 or 29,11,2,66 or 48,11,66,and (43,26,or42)? Thanks.

Mark Garrow

  (1:13 PM)

Reutimann...McMurray..I don't see 66 as being any kind of answer..So I guess the first team is the one to go with and hope the 12 and 83 can come through with at least top-15..

butternutts lenoir nc

Good morning guru... Tough call.. Beaver or Garrow for the win?

Mark Garrow

  (1:14 PM)

I think Mr. Beaver's pretty good at what he does..but I knock him out in the late rounds...lol...Just kidding Dan...lol...

Shawn (Hampton, VA)

Thanks for all your help this season Mark Guru. Please pick 2 out of this group: 1 8 88 and 6Thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (1:14 PM)

8 and 88

Mark Garrow

  (1:15 PM)

Going to take a minute know to upload the crew chief notes..they are coming up next.

Mark Garrow

  (1:15 PM)

Joe Gibbs Racing, Steve Addington, Crew Chief Kyle Busch...While Busch was 4th, 6th and 14th in the practice sessions Addingtondoes not think they are that good...at least to start the race. Kyle is fightingloose and tight conditions and they have not made an adjustment so far thathas helped. Steve did believe they are the fringes of the top 10 right now.He says Denny Hamlin has a winning car and has been flying around here allweekend.Addington thinks Tony Stewart has a top 5 car and is very happy. He thinks Jimmie Johnson is in the same boat as the 18 but will make the carbetter and be fine during the race. His favorites are the 11, 8, 20 and 99.

Mark Garrow

  (1:16 PM)

Gillette Evernham Motorsports, Rodney Childers,Crew Chief Elliott Sadler...Rodney says the 19 is not too bad as Sadlers car is strong getting in and outof the corners. Not so good in the middle of the turns but getting in and out isfar more important and Childers thinks Sadler can work his way toward thefront. Eariler this year Sadler was running 4th when the oil pump broke. Theyhave the same chassis today. A top 10 is possible. Kasey Kahne is just theopposite of Sadler as far as how it drives in the corners and his car is fallingoff as the run goes on. Kasey is a 10th to 15th place car going in. AJ Allmendingerhas struggled a bit and has a top 20 car.

Mark Garrow

  (1:16 PM)

Yates Racing, Cully Barraclough, Crew Chief David Gilliland...Cully says theyneed a lot of help today from the rest of the field. They need track position andhe is hoping for some cautions early so they can pit and get on a different sequenceas the top runners. Dont look for any great from the 38 or the 28 today unless theyget very lucky. Both have 15th to 20th place potential. His favorites are the 8, 2, 48, 99, and 29.

Mark Garrow

  (1:16 PM)

Roush-Fenway Racing, Larry Carter, Crew Chief Jamie McMurray...Larry says theyare very happy with their car. He called it a top 5 with a potential to win. He says thequalifying run was not a fluke and that McMurray really likes his car and this track. He ranks the Roush-Fenway cars as 26, 99, 17, 16 and 6. Carl Edwards has a top fivecar as well and could win. Matt Kenseth is happy with his car and has at least a top 10.Greg Biffle is just okay. He is about a 10th to 15th place car going in. David Ragan hasstruggled some and has a top 15 car right now. Carter likes the 8, 11, 20 and 26.

Mark Garrow

  (1:16 PM)

Penske Racing, Pat Tryson, Crew Chief Kurt Busch...Pat says they have a top 10 carwith potential for a top 5.Ryan Newman is good as well but is a bit slower than Buschbut he does have a top 10 car. Tryson likes the 8, 11, 99, 1 and 48.

Mark Garrow

  (1:16 PM)

Chip Ganassi Racing, Brian Patti, Crew Chief Juan Pablo Montoya...Patti says their caris pretty good with a potential to finish in the top 15. Montoya has had very good cars thepast several weeks but they have had bad luck which has gotten the team down a little. Patti says Reed Sorenson is okay, but probably wont hold his 12th qualifying spot. Hesays it always seems that when Montoya goes forward Sorenson goes backwards. His favorites are the 29, 48, 11 and 99.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Dale Earnhardt Inc., Tony Gibson, Crew Cheif Mark Martin...The garage area says Mark Martin has one of the cars to beat today and Gibson agrees. This the same chassis they ranhere in the spring with very few changes. He says Martin Truex Jr is good and when its allover he should be somewhere in the top 10. the 1-car has not been turning quite as goodas they would like but they were running top 10 lap times. Paul Menard likes Phoenix andhas a top 15 car. He was probably going to have a top 10 to 15 run last week until a pit road speeding penalty killed their chances. Regan Smith has struggled somewhat this weekend and Tony sees Smith as a top 20 car. His favorites are the 8, 29, 11, 29 and Jamie McMurray is a darkhorse to win.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Hendrick Motorsports, Tony Eury Jr., Crew Chief Dale Earnhardt Jr....Tony Jr says the 88 is pretty good...a top 10 car easy going into the race with top 5 potential. Jimmie Johnson isnt quite as happy with his car but as usual they will make adjustments and Eury says the 48 should be right there in the top 5. Jeff Gordon is happy with his car and hastop 5 potential. Casey Mears is also pleased and he has a top 10 potential. Of the non-Hendrick cars Eury likes the 8, 2, 26.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Richard Childress Racing, Scott Miller, Crew Chief Jeff Burton....Miller thinks they have top 10 potential but he didnt sound real confident. Jeff Burton was also in the hauler buthe thinks he will be okay and is optimistic that their short track package is good and theylearned a lot for Phoenix at New Hampshire and Richmond. Clint Bowyer is pretty goodand has a top 10 car while Kevin Harvick is the best RCR car. The 29 has a top 5 carand could be a winning car. Miller likes the 11, 28 and 8.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Michael Waltrip Racing, Ryan Pemberton, Crew Chief David Reutimann...Ryan is optimisticabout today and thinks that after qualifying fourth they can hang somewhere in the top 10 allday. He says they are much better than where they landed on the speed charts which was 27th, 26th and 39th.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Bill Davis Racing, Tommy Baldwin, Crew Chief Dave Blaney...The car is decent for todayand Blaney has top 15 potential. Blaney was 19th in the final practice and was getting happy with the car as they made big gains toward the end of happy hour.

Mark Garrow

  (1:17 PM)

Team Red Bull, Jimmie Elledge, Crew Chief Scott Speed...The 84 car did make some gainsduring the final practice and is just fair. Brian Vickers said after practice his car was junk. Dont look for a whole lot from either today.

Mark Garrow

  (1:23 PM)

My top six picks...11,29,8,20,99,48..next tier at the top of that group 26,24,88...then in no particular order 07,31,1,18,17,2,16, and maybe 12..Top budget picks in order Mears (17.9), Reutimann (16.3), Sadler (16.3), Montoya (15.6), Allmendinger (14.7)

Mark Garrow

  (1:24 PM)

My team for today..went for a balanced attack and a new direction as a Hail Mary to make up some ground..but still feel pretty good about it..Denny Hamlin, Mark Martin, Kevin Harvick, Casey Mears, and Jamie McMurray.

Mark Garrow

  (1:24 PM)

Now, we'll get back to some more questions..

Kyle (Baton Rouge, LA )

Mr. Garrow, 24 or 31?

Mark Garrow

  (1:25 PM)

24 seems a little safer and he knows this is his last chance, realistic chance , to win a race this year..He doesn't have a prayer of doing that at Homestead and to be honest I don't see hit happening today...unless fuel mileage deal or something odd like that comes up..

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

1 more question,how do I listen to PRN on-line and what is the web addy?

Mark Garrow

  (1:26 PM)

We're done broadcasting races this year..but you have to hear us on-line through NASCAR.com Track Pass...as for the other PRN programming and my daily show...web address..goprn.com

joe

Biffle just said he is going to the back, tranmission change. Do you like him less now?

Mark Garrow

  (1:26 PM)

I didn't like him a whole lot to begin with and like him less now.

Big Tony, The Bronx

Answer this one or I will break your legs. Dinger or Blaney :) Thanks Guru

Mark Garrow

  (1:28 PM)

Common Big Tony...a fellow eye-talian and you want to break my legs?...Besides I have an uncle in the concrete business if you know what I mean...lol....Dinger is much safer pick..I don't know how many times this year Blaney has been running decent and got zip for it..Dinger wil get to the end and hopefully be around the top-20.

Peter(NM)

hey mark, who looks better between the 1 and the 18. according to the crew chief notes, Truex is better than Kyle, what do you think? also, I have one start left with the 18, use him today or save him for Homestead?

Mark Garrow

  (1:29 PM)

I'd save the 18 for Homestead..1 won't be as good next week is my guess.

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

TY Super O'Mighty Guru for your unselfish, unwaivering dedication and wish the networks will reward you as soon as the economy is turned around. Since Qualifying, Happy Hour and Chief notes, pick 1 of each set-99 or 48? 24, 11? 20, 07? 31, 29? 18, 16? 88, 17? 11, 07? 48, 24? 99, 16? 18 or 88? Will Carl be asking you if he can flip at Homestead? Thnx Again!

Mark Garrow

  (1:30 PM)

48..11..20..29..18..88..11..48..99..88...and Carl has a better chance at doing winning flip at Homestead than today.

Sam(Wisconsin)

hey there mr. guru, got a quick question for ya: which chevy driver does the best, best ford driver today, best dodge driver today and best toyota driver today?

Mark Garrow

  (1:31 PM)

Chevy...Johnson...Toyota...Hamlin..Ford...Edwards...Dodge...Kurt Busch

jeff (springdale,ar)

48-11-8-26-5?

Mark Garrow

  (1:32 PM)

I can live with that...now after me "Hail May full of grace......."

Richard(Calif.)

Hey Mark,for Ed(WV) you ranked 26,5,1,but for Matt(NM) you have 26,1,5.

Mark Garrow

  (1:34 PM)

Let me clear up the confusion there..I was actually looking at the cap for the first one and how things would line up there and be the most cap friendly..competively..26,1,5 is where I would rank them as to who will finish higher..I think all three in pretty good shape and none of them hurt you that bad..sorry for the confusion..

Marshall (San Diego)

Carknack, one more...11 or 99?

Mark Garrow

  (1:34 PM)

I'd go 11 if you're trying to make up ground..if you're lookin to protect your lead 99 a little safer..

Brad- Nashville, TN

Hey Mark, got in late-so sorry if you've already answered this one... Who has the better finish today 29 or 11?

Mark Garrow

  (1:35 PM)

Both really good and make my top six picks..but rank 11 a little ahead of 29..Need to reitterate I put both of those guys on my team.

Michelle (Stuart FL)

20 or 29?

Mark Garrow

  (1:37 PM)

Feel a little better about the 29..qualified 19th and that's like the pole for him..ran good in Truck and Nationwide race too...Tony's good though.

pj in duluth,mn

You dropped Johnson, are you nuts?lol The pole, past history, practice speeds, What are you hiding from us?

Mark Garrow

  (1:38 PM)

Again, PJ I'm looking to make up some ground..so I took out the dice and went for broke..going different path...could be a hero or a zero..

Henry from California

hey mark, I have a yahoo league and need some help. I can only pick 8 drivers and they have an A, B and C list: in the A list, I have 11 and 48, B list: 1, 6, 18, 26 and in the C list: 15 and 44. I am thinking 48-1-26-44 myself, what does the all seeing, all knowing guru think?

Mark Garrow

  (1:38 PM)

Oh Henry...I think that's a pretty good team to chew on...

Ryan in Lincoln

Mark, how does this look 48,24,8,26,44?

Mark Garrow

  (1:39 PM)

No major weaknesses there.

Brett Favre

Oh GREAT ONE. 99 or 48? also two of the following 1, 26, 5, 43. Also, do you think I can lead us to a Super Bowl?

Mark Garrow

  (1:40 PM)

Nice game so far against St. Louis...but what are going texting me on the sidelines?...Let's get your head back in the game man..but as to your questions..48...26,1,5 is how I rank those cars on performance..on my team I took 26 and 5 for cap space issues..

Assassin (TX)

GURU ? Thanks again for your garage insight each and every week. You answered the other but could you rank Kenseth, Truex, Ragan, Kurt Busch

Mark Garrow

  (1:41 PM)

Truex, Busch, Kenseth, Ragan

Janet (Ascutney Vt.)

Hi Mark, Could you please help me decide on these guys. 99 or 31. B. Need 2; 8,1,12 or 5 and 10 or 44. I really need a perfect day to catch my brothers. Thank you...

Mark Garrow

  (1:41 PM)

99...8 and 1..44..

Karen, Madison, TN

Hey Mark, I've got the 48,29,24,26,5 Do you see any room to improve? I'm killing my husband in the SCC, and I really want this to continue... thanks.

Mark Garrow

  (1:44 PM)

Karen..Where's the love?..You've got him down now you want to kick him in the Bells of St. Marys?..lol...Your team is in pretty good shape..24 certainly won't hurt you..but sneaking the 8 in there might help..Just a thought...Now tell your husband to write me because he and I need to talk...lol..

Heather Atlanta GA

B group - 88,26,18,1 - should I save the 88 for next week?

Mark Garrow

  (1:45 PM)

Junior will be about in the same shape today as he will next week..top-10 potential..maybe a little bit better chance of doing better than that today than at Homestead..

Walnutt from Missouri

Is Hamlin's car good enough to stay out front most of the day?

Mark Garrow

  (1:46 PM)

He's got a shot to do that..very good.

Kenny (Phoenixville, PA)

Hey Mark- Do you think your top 6 will finish that way? Or do you think some of your middle tier will jump in?

Mark Garrow

  (1:46 PM)

I think if there's three cars in the second tier that could move up they are the 26,24, and 88 in my opinion.

Willie (MS)

Hey guru, long time no chat.. Who you like better the 17 or the 1?

Mark Garrow

  (1:47 PM)

1

chris,paradise ca.

55,22,01,77,21,47. i know there uglyer than my mother inlaw but can you pick one please

Mark Garrow

  (1:48 PM)

I had this question earlier and believe it or not it came down to the 22 or the 55..and I held my nose and went with the 22...who I'd really like to see finish well with Blaney being one of the truly good guys in this deal.

Mark Garrow

  (1:48 PM)

I had this question earlier and believe it or not it came down to the 22 or the 55..and I held my nose and went with the 22...who I'd really like to see finish well with Blaney being one of the truly good guys in this deal.

Jimmy Johnson

Do u see me winning today Guru?

Mark Garrow

  (1:49 PM)

Wouldn't mind seeing it my man..possibility...if it happens you ice a third title and give Chevy manufacturer's championship too probably..but also have to admit I dropped you from my team..sorry...

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

ROFLMBO- you may need to go into marriage counseling after this job plays out!

Mark Garrow

  (1:50 PM)

And I want to make Karen's husband my first client...lol...

Andy (IN)

PLEASE HELP ME OUT - Dump Kyle this week for maybe the 29??

Mark Garrow

  (1:51 PM)

I think that would be a good move..18 not that bad though..but I think 29 is better.

Courtney (Sun Prairie, WI)

Im thinking about getting rid of the 48 as well, which option should I go with? 11,20,29,8,44 or 11,20,29,2,12?

Mark Garrow

  (1:52 PM)

I think 8 and 44 better option than 2 and 12..

Jen (OH)

Which one should score more points? 48 99 11 8 Ambrose OR 48 99 11 44 42

Mark Garrow

  (1:53 PM)

Jen, sounds to me like you really like to gamble? Poker..five car stud I'm guessing..either that or "Go Fish"...lol...go with the first team and go for broke..Ambrose finishes top-25..other guys could go top-five...and got any 8's?

Bill

Which combo do you like better - 29,11,2 or 48,11,26? I've been burned so many times by McMurray this year, but finally cashed in last week. Thanks.

Mark Garrow

  (1:54 PM)

I think McMurray pays off again..go with group 2

Scott Sebastian FL

Do you see 18 as top 10 or 5

Mark Garrow

  (1:54 PM)

top-10

Mark Garrow

  (1:55 PM)

By the way, just heard Newman's under the weather..might possbily have the flu..

Chris TN

Any info on Vickers today?? For Yahoo I have Vickers or Allmendinger, but you mention Allmendinger being loose, and Vickers has a good average finish despite starting so far back. what are your thoughts?

Mark Garrow

  (1:55 PM)

Tough call, but I'd rate Vickers has having a little more upside and I bet thicker sheet metal..I don't think either will set the world on fire.

Dusty - Indpls

48,11,8,12,44 keep or change? thanks

Mark Garrow

  (1:56 PM)

I'm not all that hip on the 12..he's okay but I think you can do better..

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

What is the reasoning drivers and crew chief picks a pit stall far down pit lane after a good qualifying session? Does it have something to do with where the start finish line is on track?

Mark Garrow

  (1:58 PM)

It has to do with finding an opening so no one can block them in...that's the first option they are looking for...second one is to pit around guys you think will be lapped pretty quickly...again you don't get blocked in...third option..pit around guys you think will treat you fair pitting all the way in their box not trying to block you in..

Stacey Alabamba

ESPN I have 99, 48, 24, 44, 10 would you make any changes? First three are locked, and I am not getting rid of 48 like some crazy people! LOL

Mark Garrow

  (1:59 PM)

Do I hear the Bells of St. Mary's ringing again?...Thank goodness I'm wearing a cup...10's not in great shape but if he could finish around 20th you should be in decent shape..

Jimmy Johnson

Who did you drop me for Guru. What happen to love? Let me guess Cousin Carl??

Mark Garrow

  (2:00 PM)

I dropped him too..I'm going for broke baby..everybody has you and Cousin Carl on their team...even Stacey from Alabama..and I need to go different to wax her butt....figuratively speaking of course..lol...

yzergod (Durango, CO)

Heard Newman may have the flu? If this is true, who would be a better replacement: Ragan or LaBonte?

Mark Garrow

  (2:02 PM)

He may have the flu...but replacing him with either of those guys is not the answer.

Shannon (N. Adams, MA)

Hey Mark, what do you think of this team, 99,11,8,26,44?

Mark Garrow

  (2:02 PM)

I can live with it..good luck..

Taylor (JC, KS)

Whose stronger...48 and 42 or 8 and 1

Mark Garrow

  (2:03 PM)

On average..go 8 and 1...no telling where the 42 ends up...but 8 and 1 should be both somewhere in the top-10..

Mark Garrow

  (2:03 PM)

On average..go 8 and 1...no telling where the 42 ends up...but 8 and 1 should be both somewhere in the top-10..

pj in duluth,mn

Is mears better than Reutabegga

Mark Garrow

  (2:03 PM)

I think he is...last seven weeks..Mears has been top-15 in points...nice chunk just about every week and I think he does that again today.

Roughneck: Wichita Falls, TX

Guru, may have missed this. Do you know why Jeff Burton's Average Speeds in P2 and P3 were so slow? Ranked 42nd and 40th in P2 - P3. His one lap ranks are 11th and 4th best. Why the big difference, if you know?? Thanks for all Your Help this Season

Mark Garrow

  (2:05 PM)

All I know is that this team is struggling a little bit ..I think Jeff will eventually get good enough though to make a run at a top-10..difference in positions is how quickly he was dropping off from fastest speed...one thing we don't know is how old his tires were, which could explain some of that..

Jeff Gordon

I guess I'm not going to win anything this year? Can I at least beat Tony today?

Mark Garrow

  (2:05 PM)

Er...sorry..but no

A Real J i m m i e Fan!

If ya gonna try to pretend you are someone, it is more believable if ya know how to spell the name right!

Mark Garrow

  (2:06 PM)

glad someone caught that...lol...

Mark Garrow

  (2:06 PM)

glad someone caught that...lol...

David (MS)

Guru, can you please help?!? Rank the following: 1-5-8-18-26-88.

Mark Garrow

  (2:06 PM)

8,26,88,18,1,5...all in pretty good shape..

Dale from alabama

just wanted to say that you rock and I really appreciate the crew chief notes, you have really helped me a lot throughout the year, hope you don't let me down today guru, you rock!

Mark Garrow

  (2:07 PM)

Thanks man...

Andy (IN)

How much does track history play into this race..w/COT cars now and being in the Chase factors...tnx! (still learning)

Mark Garrow

  (2:08 PM)

Past stats mean something..but I think the last three races are more important because they were with the new car..going back farther than that you're basically looking for a driver's general comfort level at the track in my opinion.

Shannon (Massachusetts)

I need to gain ground on my hubby. What do you think's better, 48,24,11,8,andambrose or 99,11,8,26,44?

Mark Garrow

  (2:11 PM)

If you really want to pick up some ground..you've got to change direction...go for broke..I'm recommending 55,78,77, 7, and 84...

Mark Garrow

  (2:11 PM)

If you really want to pick up some ground..you've got to change direction...go for broke..I'm recommending 55,78,77, 7, and 84...

Mark Garrow

  (2:12 PM)

Shannon...just kidding lol...I'm trying to protect the guys a little bit...We've got to rise up and stand out ground...lol...in all seriousness..your second team should do alright..

yzergod (Durango, CO)

So, keep Newman over Ragan or Labonte in my Yahoo league, even if he's sick?

Mark Garrow

  (2:13 PM)

Yes..unless you've got another answer other than Ragan or Labonte.

Gary from New York

hey mark, does this look like a good line-up to you? 48-1-26-44. I can only switch the 48 to 11, the 1 and the 26 to the 6 and the 18 and i can only switch from the 44 to the 15, what do you think guru

Mark Garrow

  (2:14 PM)

I'd stick with what you got..but got to say again 11 has a real shot to outperform everyone today..6 is not an answer..44 much safer than 15.

Andrew (JC, KS)

Mark who would you pick 16 or 18?

Mark Garrow

  (2:14 PM)

18..especially with 16 going to back reportedly because of a transmission change.

pj in duluth,mn

Now I am confused Which line up ... 5,8,11,26,48 or the 48,8,11,26,44 or the 48,8,11,1,44

Mark Garrow

  (2:16 PM)

First team feels the strongest and safest to me.

Stacey Alabamba

Uh It's Me!!! (with the spelling!)Wax On!

Mark Garrow

  (2:16 PM)

Oh Stacey..behave....

Ryan Fan (IN)

How do you think he will fare in the race, now and will he finish the race?

Mark Garrow

  (2:17 PM)

I think he's top-15 potential..Think is teammate Kurt Busch a little bit better going in..

Andrew (JC,KS)

Mark what do you think of this team 18-24-8-1-26 im looking to beat my dad in this race and win the segment in my group with my leading into this race?

Mark Garrow

  (2:18 PM)

You went kind of like I did for good average all the way across and I think you have a chance with that line-up to go all potentially top-10.

Jason (TN)

48 or 24?88 1 12 6

Mark Garrow

  (2:18 PM)

48...rank the others 88,1,12,6

steve(TX)

hey mark, 1, 8, 16, 88, which 2 finish better?

Mark Garrow

  (2:19 PM)

8 and 88..but 1 not too shabby either.

DJ Vero Beach

Tryin to beat my mom , who's safer to use in two groups 48 or 99

Mark Garrow

  (2:19 PM)

48

lou phila pa

07,5 or 83

Mark Garrow

  (2:20 PM)

performance wise I like the 07 just a little bit better than the 5, who's a little cap friendly in the ESPN SCC game.

brad (nashville, TN)

truex or Reutimann?

Mark Garrow

  (2:20 PM)

Truex..

Shannon (Massachusetts)

WOW! You really are trying to be a hero or zero!!!! Those picks were not even in my realm of thinking this week....Do you know something we don't?? Is there going to be some massive wreck that takes out all the top drivers? By the way...who's in the 78?? Nemechek and Wallace aren't in it...

Mark Garrow

  (2:22 PM)

Just trying to mess with you...78 didn't qualify for the race...again today I'm trying to stick up for the hubby's of the world...We men must unite!

Tom- Madison, TN

Hey Guru, Karen's hubby here... she is beating me pretty good- she found your expert advice here before I did...keepup the good work. I'm having a real tough time choosing between the 11 and 29... any thoughts?

Mark Garrow

  (2:23 PM)

both real good but I'd go with 11...and if you want to hire me as your personal Guru next year let me know....and bet something "big" on the year with your wife just to spice it up..lol...

Frank (FL)

the 18, 24 or 20? Thanks!

Mark Garrow

  (2:24 PM)

peformance wise I'd rank them 20,24,18...24 might be safest pick though..

K in Htown

Which team is best today: <(99 or 48), 11, 8, 26, 44> OR <29, 11, 20, 26, 2> OR <11, 29, 8, 26, (1 or 2 or 5)> ?

Mark Garrow

  (2:26 PM)

My team today is the 11,20,8,26, and 5...but wouldn't have a problem switching the 5 with the 1..but 48,11,8,26 and 44 might score a couple of more points..

Shannon (Massachusetts)

Alright, no more protecting the guys! The ladies need some love too! By the way in my group, my hubby is in 1st place. I'm in 4th - not too shabby for a GIRL. If I can atleast get into 3rd or even 2nd would be nice, we'd both be in the money.

Mark Garrow

  (2:26 PM)

Easy Shannon...I'm only trying to get under your skin a little bit..lol...

need to know(houma la)

48 99 8 26 44800????????????????

Mark Garrow

  (2:27 PM)

I can see that team 750 - 800..

AK (Fort Worth,Tx)

99 or 24 ?

Mark Garrow

  (2:27 PM)

99

Todd from Sacramento

What do you think of Jr.'s comments about the race schedule being too long?

Mark Garrow

  (2:28 PM)

I totally agree...We need to get where we can run a couple of races in the same week about 2 to 4 times a season at least..shorten this thing up by about a month...would pick up interest by giving us a little bit more breather..

Frank (Boston)

Will you be doing these chats on ESPN next year. Is anything official?? We need the Guru on the World Wide Leader!!

Mark Garrow

  (2:29 PM)

I don't see any reason I wouldn't be back..but can use all the positive comments ..and again if you haven't already..If you have an opinion on how I do here please e-mail to tg2vt@aol.com..and any suggestions to make it better are also welcome..

SBMltd Bakersfield Ca

I forsee not only marriage counseling in your future, but also family counseling as a filler!

Mark Garrow

  (2:31 PM)

I might also decide to open up one of those fancy lady salons...Apparently, I could get Stacey as my first wax job customer...or is that wack job customer..lol..

Bill (Hooksett, NH)

OK Mark....here's my line up:48,29,11,26,44 Thoughts ??

Mark Garrow

  (2:31 PM)

Run with it...you look in pretty good shape...

DJ's Mom

48,8,with 88 and 20 or 24 and ?

Mark Garrow

  (2:32 PM)

I think 20 has a chance to finish higher..but again 24 might be a little safer.

Big Papi(FL)

11,99,48,29 or 11,99,48 ??

Mark Garrow

  (2:32 PM)

Sorry man...not sure what you're asking?

yzergod (Durango, CO)

Well, a big thank you for your insight during the chase! I am going with Johnson, McMurray, Newman, and Reutimann and am benching Gordon, LaBonte, Ragan, and Menard in my Yahoo league. Looks ok?

Mark Garrow

  (2:33 PM)

I can live with that..good luck.

david

I need 2 out of this group 1,88,18? also 99 or 48? thanks

Mark Garrow

  (2:33 PM)

88, 1...48

Daniel(IN)

hey mark, I know you are singing Hamlin's praises, but why do you like him better than Jimmie?

Mark Garrow

  (2:35 PM)

I'm not sure I like him a whole lot better than Jimmie..it's just in the ESPN SCC game I can't pick up Hamlin without dropping 48 and 99..so I did figuring I'm so far behind now (teams didn't get saved right for about six weeks - little technical glitcth) so I decided to throw caution to the wind...You almost never lose with Jimmie Johnson..and he should be stronger this week than he will be at Homestead next week going by past stats..

megus

Hey Mark,11-44-5, 99-84-5, 11-31-21, or 17-8-5Thanks a bunch this year!!!

Mark Garrow

  (2:36 PM)

11-44-5

Big Papi(FL)

Need four top 5 potential drivers, have the 11,99and 48 keep 29 or switch him out for another

Mark Garrow

  (2:36 PM)

29 got top-five potential..about only guy I would think about switching him out for is 8.

doug(wis)

can we get back to some seriousness?

Mark Garrow

  (2:38 PM)

Doug..to you and the others who think I get a little too far off track...sorry about that...and I mean that...but I like to have fun with this too...so I try to make sure I give all the best stuff I can give and ten have a few laughs..if you'll notice I don't usually mess around too much until we are pretty deep into this chat...

Mason (Chicago)

Hey Mark, Need 2: 88,12,1 or 26

Mark Garrow

  (2:39 PM)

26-88...just ahead of 1..then 12 that's how I rank these guys..

Michelle (Stuart FL)

It's a shame we can't bottle all this love and sell it to support NASCAR!!And keep Guru going next year

Mark Garrow

  (2:39 PM)

Thanks

Mark Garrow

  (2:40 PM)

Folks got to run..have been on for over two hours...and loving every minute..but time for me to move on to the race...good luck with your picks and look forward to "chatting" again this week on Wednesday and then of course next Sunday.

Mark Garrow

  (2:41 PM)

The Guru has left the building!