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Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:00 PM)

Good morning everyone...let's do it one more more time in 2009...I'm a poet and don't know it..Let's get this partaaaayyyyy started!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:02 PM)

Quick thing to start off with..No one at this point is going to the back according to NASCAR. Also expected start and parks today...Travis Kvapil..and Michael McDowell..Everybody else should be racing for it..

Mike (Michigan)

Hey Guru - This is my 1st year in a fantasy league. I went from last (21st) early in the season to 8th overall and 1st in this segment in a big part due to your advice. Thank you! I can't often participate live so I'm sending this question early. You answered this question at least 6 times Wed. but I want to see if you still have the same answer today. The 48 said he felt he got in trouble in Texas by being cautious. Why would he do that again

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:04 PM)

Mike, here's the deal with the 48..He's starting up front and he'll try to stay there but when push comes to shove and they've got to push hard to stay there I don't see why they would. He'll do what he's done before find a nice quiet place to run out of the way and cruise to the title. If his car is super comfortable and he doesn't have to push it then he might try to stick up front. Bottom line they don't even know at this point. But I don't see them racing to win because they simply don't have to.

Andrew ((NJ))

I'm looking at 2 possibilities. Who's a safer group out of 02,47 or 21,44? And is 82 worth putting in instead of 21? Thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:05 PM)

21 and 44 definitely the safer group and no I wouldn't put Scott Speed ahead of Bill Elliott..Speed qualifying second was more a product of him going out late than having an outstanding car.

greg (arnold)

hello mark! the last week and need a bunch of help, 87 points out. well anyway pick one: 17,5 pick two 1,11,9,00 pick one: 44,77. thanx mark for all you do and i look forward to next year. happy holidays.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:08 PM)

I don't think you can go wrong with the 17 or the 5, but would probably give slight edge to 5 because of his consistency in the last four races on 1.5-mile tracks. Kenseth thought has been second and third in last two at Charlotte and Texas. In Group 2...9 and 11, but 1 is goin to be really good. 00 is just average going in. In group three going with 'Dinger or Hornish.

Barry (Rutland, VT)

Guru, many thanks for a great season -- I've been very appreciative of your insights over the course of the year. My last questions are: 16 or 17? Best two (and then also safest two) out of 1, 00, 42, and 9? How will the 44 run? Enjoy the offseason.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:09 PM)

Thanks for the props...I like the 17 a little more than 16..42 and 9..feel like the best and the safest, but for those in ESPN game 1 is going to deliver again this week at low price. 44 is a potential top-15 car...

zilla (mn)

hey guru i got 48 11 18 88 6 now but thinking 48 2 18 26 09 or 48 2 18 44 09 any advice??

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:10 PM)

Zilla...hate to break it to you 09 missed the race..

Ron (Vegas)

Hey Mark! First of all thanks for a great year. I hope to see you back next season. In Y! I'm definitely running Martin and Dinger over Gordon and Kes but I'm stuck in B. Need two from 00-9-1-07. What's your feeling on this one?Have a great holiday season and here's to a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year for all of us. See you at Daytona!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:11 PM)

You're welcome...I'd go 9 and 1...and you too have a great holiday season..

GWB (Texas)

Mark need one...16,99 need two 20,26,29,44,47 need one 12,21 thanks for all you do

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:12 PM)

16...29 and 44...12 and 21 a tough call..I probably lean towards the 12.

Big Ron (West Winfield, NY)

I could pick #14 today, but I know the guy one point ahead of me in our eliminator will pick him. In your opinion, could any of these drivers help me get ahead of him: #17, #1, #29, #99, or #31?Thanks for all your advice this year.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:14 PM)

I think the 17 has the best chance the way he's running at Homestead and the way he's run last two mile and half tracks at Charotte and Texas..but garage this morning is really high on the 29 and 31 in that order they like those two a lot. They also think the 1 could come up pretty big..Edwards is maybe top-10 potential.

Beth (WV)

Mark I am in the Money... I have a 30 point lead bring me home BIG DADDY.....48-5-29-17-6.. Show me the money..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:17 PM)

Beth..I'd love to show you the money, but I've got real questions about what the 48 is going to do..I really like the 5,29, and 17..but you need to rethink in my opinion 48 and 6. If you come off Jimmie say to a Tony Stewart..they you can move up from Ragan to a Truex or Allmendinger and that should be better than taking the 6..Then, you can shake your money tree...

Tazman (Detroit,MI)

Mark need your help in holding off my 3rd place compatition, im ahead by 79 point, here are my choices. Group A need 1: 5 or 48 Group B need 2: 1,9,14 or 39 Group C need 1: 44 or 47. Again thanks for all the help this year, see you in Daytona. Have a great Holiday season.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:18 PM)

I'd go 5....14-9....44..happy holidays to you too.

Bert (NC)

Mark should i kept the 99 or trade him for the 39 also please pick two 1,20,47,29,26,44 thanks

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:20 PM)

That 99 and 39 is a tough call. Because he's run better lately on 1.5-mile tracks I'll lean to Newman. 29 and 1

Ken (DE)

Hey Guru. Sadler or Gilliand? JamieMac or Ambrose? Also is Bobby Labonte going to run the entire race today? As you can see I have slim pickins for this game I'm in. lol

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:21 PM)

You are in it deep Ken that's for sure..Gilliland...Ambrose...and Bobby Labonte is going to run the entire race.

Dan (Chicago. IL)

Who should I go with in my other league for a bottom tier the 55, 34, or 78? Thanks guru, see you in Daytona!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:21 PM)

I'd go with the 55 out of that bunch.

mike p (danbury ct)

mark went with the 14 for the last race he looked sporty on friday qulifying 5 and newman 7 or 8. can you tell me aboutwhat his chances are to top five or maybe a win also can you tell me about how he likes his car?thanks mark can you run through the teams like you always do?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:22 PM)

Mike, Tony is in really good shape according to his crew chief Darian Grub.and we'll have the crew chief notes and top-picks coming your way in just a little while.

alan (pa)

MY LAST POST OF THE YEAR>> to all who took issue with my statement about denny.. LOOK AT WHERE HE IS NOW!! denny has been, and will always be a bum! see ya'll next year!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:24 PM)

Look who's back after escaping the clutches of Nurse Helga and Nurse Brunhilde.....AND he still has the same disease...Hamlinitis of the colon...lol...

Adam (Indy)

Jimmy-Jimmy-Jimmy....what do I do with him? Keep him or replace him with ______?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:26 PM)

I think you can replace JJ with the 5, 14 and feel pretty confident going in. We don't know what Jimmie is going to do - run hard or cruise? But we do now 14 and 5 have great cars and they are going for it.

Carl Edwards (Not Homestead)

Hi Mark, I need your help today. As you know, I'm awesome on 1.5 mile tracks but this weekend has been horrible for me with my practice times, especially my averages. Do you give me any hope this weekend of continuing my 1.5 mile dominance, or is this season a complete waste? Thanks, Your Cousin Carl

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:26 PM)

Cousin Carl...just try for a top-10 today..top-5 and win..not going to happen bud..sorry.

Andy (Westfield)

LAST WEEK...how sad!!! THANKS for all you did for us this year! You helped me (in my first Nascar year) finish 3rd with 9 wins (maybe 10). You made a great call last week with the 1 over 14 which gave me another win. I need all of my team to finish in the top 15-20 this week to secure 3rd, so who are the two safest out of 14,42,1,9? Do I risk the 1 one more time and waste a 14 or 42 allocation?ouch? Also, how do you think the 47 and 44 will do today?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:28 PM)

All four of the cars you listed in really good shape..but safest picks in there are 14 and the 9. I think both the 47 and 44 have top-15 potential today.

BOWLES (WICHITA FALLS, TX)

HEY GURU, I HAVE THE 48 AT +2.5, IS IT STILL A GOOD IDEA TO DROP HIM?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:28 PM)

It's the last race my man...don't hold back go for it...I'm trading 48...I want to be sure my top guys are going for the win no holds barred.

Jt (Savannah)

Mark, I do not play SCC, but I am in a weekly race pool and our draw is every Sunday at 12:45. Your crew chief notes are the single most important help in my decision making. Is it possible to start the pre-race chat with the crew chief notes. Thanks

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:31 PM)

I'd always love to do that..but you see how long the notes are and as I type we are gathering a few more crew chiefs..I'll post them today what I have at 12:40...

Joe's Wife (USA Baby!!)

Well, the end of another season..bummer. But hey, your insight, advice and crew chief notes helped to put me in the money honey!! And bonus.. I get to bust my husbands chops for the next 3 months! We really enjoyed the chat and the funny a$$ comments! I hope you, and all the chatters, have a great winter! (can't forget Ken, hope your feeling better)For my last question, should I go with the 24 and 20 (or 44) or drop the 24 and go with the 17 and 9? CIAO BELLO!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:32 PM)

First thanks for the props it was fun year chatting...We all need to remember one of our faithful followers Ken in NC...If you're tuned in Ken...hang in their bud...and finally I would go with 17 and 9 and kick your husband's bootie one more time!

John (Tampa)

Thanks for everything this year Guru. Who will be better today, the 26 or 00?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:33 PM)

I'd probably give the edge to Reutimann.

wesley rollins (ridgeley, wv)

Ok Guru, so last week I had a 130 point margin over 2nd place in my league, then I started Junior against your advice. This week I am going to listen you, because you're clearly smarter than me. I have a 30 point lead over 2nd place. Here are my options in groups A-B-C. 5,24....2,42,1,9.....44,12. I'm thinking 5 for sure, 2 for sure, then the rest is cloudy...maybe 1 and 12? Thanks for your advice Guru, hope you're enjoying Florida!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:37 PM)

Doubt the Guru and paid the price eh?...Questioned the Lord of the Lugnuts really?...lol.. Well, guess what I didn't take my own advice and left Junior on my team and he killed my because I also had 48,5,1 and 77, who was 17th..Junior cost me high 700 or low 800..Guru turned Goober...lol.. Well, let's try again shall we...5.....9 and 2..but all four in that group good shape..44 over 12..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:38 PM)

Okay..here's what we're going to do..put up the crew chief notes we have...and will follow up with the others as they come in..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:38 PM)

Hendrick Motorsports, Lance McGrew, crew chief Dale Earnhardt, Jr....The 88 is pretty impressive in his words and they have the best Hendrickcar going in. This is their Atlanta and California chassis. Their car is much better than 32nd qualifying effort and said early draw just killed themin qualifying. The car is really fast and top groove is going to be the fastest groove until around 6:00 and then you'll have to go to the bottom. Hesaid they ran a bunch of laps on the bottom and Junior liked how the car felt. As for as his teammates, none of the other three were really happy, allwere fighting different issues, but they are all still top-10 or better cars. Mark Martin wasn't happy, but at the same time nobody in practice waspassing him. Gordon wasn't real happy until the last part of happy hour when they found a few things that were happy. Johnson didn't say a wholelot about his car other than he was working on getting a better balance. He likes 88, 29,31, 2, and 48.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:38 PM)

Penske Racing, Pat Tryson, crew chief Kurt Busch....He says their car is pretty good with definite top-10 capability, maybe top-5. It's their Texaschassis and is another guy who said look at Atlanta to get a possible gauge on today. His favorites 48 depending on how hard he wants to runplus the 5, 11, 18, 42 and 1.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:38 PM)

Penske Racing, Travis Geisler, crew chief Sam Hornish, Jr....He said they were okay in practice and they ran pretty good. They were disappointedabout qualifying 29th. They have put a lot of adustability into their car this morning and their goal today is a top-20. Brad Keselowski is just okayand is top-20 material going in.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:38 PM)

Roush Fenway Racing, David Ragan...He thought their car was way better than where they qualified in 41st. Their goal was to finish top-15, butthought they were top-20 car. He thought Biffle, McMurray and Kenseth had top-10 cars and Edwards was 10th - 15th place car because he's notquite as happy as the others. His favorites 5, 24, 42,11 and 88.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

Roush Fenway Racing, Drew Blickensderfer, crew chief Matt Kenseth...He said they're good and they've gotten better. He's happy with car andfelt they were top-10 at least. Ran this car Kansas (39th), Charlotte (2nd) and Texas (3rd).

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing, Brian Pattie, crew chief Juan Pablo Montoya...JPM is under the weather, feeling sick, but should be okay for the race. They did brush the wall during the final practice and lost about 15 minutes fixing the damage and we're able to get back out on to the track.He feels they are a top-10 car and their goal is to be Tony Stewart for fifth place in the points. Cars been fast off the track and isn't really worried speedwise despite starting 23rd. Martin Truex, Jr. might be a little bit better than Montoya. The #1 team was very happy with the way their practices went. Pattie also said take a look at who ran well at Atlata and you might get a good snapshot at the way things will turn out today. He likes 48,31,29,14, and 88.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

RCR, Shane Wilson, crew chief Clint Bowyer...Bowyer is just average with top-15 potential, might be able to sneak a top-10. Harvick and Burton are a lot better and should be top-10 cars and thought they were fifth to seventh place cars. For Bowyer, this is the chassis they ran at Atlanta, finishing 29th, and Dover, where they finished 15th. Car is slower than they would like, but the balance is good. Wilson very high on the 29 and 31. As far as Mears, he said Casey was just okay and might be able to run top-15. His favorites 48,5, and 88 plus 29 and 31.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

Joe Gibbs Racing, Greg Zippadelli, crew chief Joey Logano...He's okay and is a top-15 car, but hope to adjust into top-10 by the end of the day. Theywere disappointed about qualifying 35th. Just getting to the front is going to be ther issue and they've run more practice laps than just about anyonethis weekend and have made very few adjustments. Denny Hamlin is okay and is top-10 car, falling off a little too much though on a long run. KyleBusch's car not driving the way he really wanted but felt he was going to be a top-10 car at least when it was over. As who he liked as favorites allZippadelli would say was that he "was impressed with the Childress cars".

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:39 PM)

Stewart-Haas Racing, Tony Gibson, crew chief Ryan Newman...He said that they are a tenth to 12th place car even though they were top-five in most practices and were struggling in turn 4. Newman has problems missing marks in turn 4, but the car has plenty of speed. Stewart is in reallygood shape and has a top-5 car this from Darian Grub who was up in the truck with Gibson. Grub thinks they have a chance to win. Gibson's favoritesare 31,14, 42, and 88.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:40 PM)

Richard Petty Motorsports, Kenny Francis, crew chief Kasey Kahne...Their car seemed to be okay and Kasey was happy. He thought they couldat least make it into the top-10. This is the same chassis they ran at Texas (33rd) and Charlotte (3rd). Allmendinger is in pretty good shape andshould be a top-15 car. Sorenson and Sadler are struggling a little bit. Sorenson spun out in the first practice and is putting the 9's chassis underhis car today. His favorites are the RCR cars.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:40 PM)

Michael Waltrip Racing, Rodney Childers, crew chief David Reutimann...They are aboutd a tenth to 15th car and hope to be more top-10 potentialas race wears on. He said they started out really good in practice yesterday, but got worse as the practices went on. So, they went back to theiroriginal set-up for the race. Marcos Ambrose is just "okay". They got a really good qualifying, which is one of the main reasons he qualified third.Still, Childers said Ambrose has a top-15 car and might have been a little better than Reutimann by the end of the final practice. Michael Waltrip isfairly happy and might be able to squeeze out a top-20. His favorites 88,31, and 29.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:40 PM)

Red Bull Racing, Ryan Pemberton, crew chief Brian Vickers...They feel pretty good about their car and think this new chassis will give them a chanceto finish top-10 despite starting 33rd. Scott Speed is a top-20 car and qualifying run in second place had more to do with when he ran then how heran as he went out very late with the other go or go home drivers. His favorites, 48, 5, 29, and 88.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:41 PM)

Wood Brothers, David Hyder, crew chief for Bill Elliott, He says they have the potential to run top-15. The car has been really fast right off the truck. It's a new chassis they just built and they are very high on the way the car has performed.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:42 PM)

We might have a few more pit notes trickling in...So we'll put off our top picks for a little while and get back to the questions.

Dunnage (Pensacola)

Hey Guru! I have an 87-point lead over the competition, and I have a strategy question for you. My closest competitor will likely start the 44 (1 remaining) and he is out of the 47. I have the 44 and the 47 on my roster; would you play for the block or would you start the 47?Also, can I get your two favorites out of 00, 1, 6, and 26. Thanks, for the help this season!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:44 PM)

With the lead, Allmendinger and Ambrose are about equal...would probably rate Allmendinger a little ahead of Ambrose because he was better at Texas and and a year ago at Homestead finished 11th. As for the other group..1 and 00 feel the safest to me.

Mike (Los Angeles)

Thank you Guru for all the great fantasy advice this year! One last Q for me (for now): how do you see the 48 running today? Dump him and figure something else out or go with a lineup of 16-39-29-1-44?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:46 PM)

I'm dumping the 48 because again I really don't know what he'll be up to and I don't think they know either...Biffle should be good but I like 17 better.and you might want to go with 31 over 39..but team as you have it does have some potential.

Chris (Buffalo)

hows this lineup: 16,18,31,29,77 thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:48 PM)

How about again 17..over 16...and 21 over 77

Tiffany (Pittsburgh)

Hey Guru! First off- thanks for all the help this season! I discovered your chat this year and really enjoyed it. You give great pre-race insight that really helps in making my last minute fantasy picks. So- 5 or 17? Need two- 42 1 14 and 9. Finally 44 or 12? Thanks again and see ya next year!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:49 PM)

5 and 17 again really, really good..slight edge I think to 5..He has a little more incentive to go all out today..14 and 9..44..and you're welcome.

Vince (LA)

Hey guru. Team A)14,31,29,1,26 Team B)5,14,29,1,21 Team C)14,16,39,29,02. Thanks.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:49 PM)

Vince I like team B.

Jeff (Louisiana)

5-48-29-1-21 or should i pick 42 for 48? Thought he may just ride today,but the pole run Friday suprised me.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:51 PM)

Again...if 48 gets under too much pressure will fall back, he has to because it would be stupid to do otherwise..If he's comfortable up front he may try to stick up there..but they and we just don't know..I might go for the 2, 17, or 9 ahead of 14 for the 48..

steve (pa)

44 or 88?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:53 PM)

The garage is screeming the 88 again...but I'm gun shy man..don't know..44 is top-15..don't know if they are in the group..but 29 and 1 would be better than those two I think.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:53 PM)

The garage is screeming the 88 again...but I'm gun shy man..don't know..44 is top-15..don't know if they are in the group..but 29 and 1 would be better than those two I think.

Chad (Tx)

Newman or Kahne? Newman's qualifying and practices were all above Kahne's but I haven't read that you are too hot on Newman, so I am asking directly. My other choices are Montoya and Stewart, and of these 4 drivers, I need 2.Thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:54 PM)

I'd go with Kahne today..usually his crew chief really poor mouth's their deal and didn't do that today and Kasey's strength are tracks this size..Newman's not bad though. Stewart and Kahne is what I'm standing on today.

joe (tx)

need one 17 or 5? need two 9 , 1 , 00 , 07? need one 44 or 12? thenks guru

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:54 PM)

5 slightly over 17..but both really good..9 and 1...44

Caddis1 (Dululth, GA)

Once again and the last for the year:( 14 or the 31? Your the best! Time to hit the woods!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:55 PM)

Happy hunting...14..

JerryB (WNC)

18 and 39, or 17 and 11,Thanks for everything.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:55 PM)

I'm thinking 17 and 11 and you're welcome!

dom (pittsburgh, pa)

guru your the man thanks for everything this year!!!!pick one 24,16. pick two 42,1,00,9. pick one 44,bill elliot.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:57 PM)

24 over 16..Gordon's been much more consistent on 1.5-mile tracks this year..1 and 9...44...but Elliott will be pretty good..

Mike (Los Angeles)

31-44 or 5-21?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:58 PM)

At first blush, I wanted to go with 5 and 21.

Tracy (Hot Atlanta)

Thanks for all the info this year. You did real good even if I did follow your picks all the time.It did give me good insight with crew notes on Sunday or Saturday.Where can we find your league and scores for the year at?Again THANKS

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (12:59 PM)

I'm not in a league...I think, though, I should do that next year..glad you liked what we provided and have a good holiday.

Al (Red Bank, NJ)

Guru, thanks for another great season. I'm in a bit of a jam in the Yahoo game and I need some help... It looks like everyone is running the 5 and I have to pick the 24 or 17.... I'm leaning 17 because I doubt anyone will start him and his record on this track is sick.... Also I have my B group ranked as follows: 42, 09, 01, 00. Do you agree?Thanks again. You DA MAN!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:00 PM)

I'd feel pretty good going with the 17 today..I'd rank 9,42,100...and thanks for the props!

joshua (arkansas)

Guru,how is this taking looking like to collect some points 5,42,17,1,02thank you for all your help for my rookie fantasy season

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:01 PM)

Joshua..glad to have you along you rookie...lol..If 02 comes though with a finish around 20th which is a possibility you should be in pretty good shape..42 is going to be good..but Kahne might be a possible trade..

Ward Burton (South Boston,Va)

I need one 5 or 24 B Group 11,14,39,42 C Group 21 or 44

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:03 PM)

Yo Ward good to hear from you one last time this year bud...heard about your new website....www.wwwwwwwwwwaaarrrdddbbbbuuuurrrttttoooonnnnn.com..fabuloous..5...14,11..44..

jake (florida)

Guru thanks for the advice this year, only 3 months to go before you do it again. My line up as of right now is 5, 14, 29, 1 and 21. What you think, any changes I need to make?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:04 PM)

Jake that team has some big po-tential..Could be show me the money time!

Chris (Buffalo)

I just switched it and what do you think about this lineup: 14,17,31,29, and 21 thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:04 PM)

Now, we're talking big boy!

Malibu Barbie (*** P'Cola Florida ***)

Hey Guru, as always sad to see the season end, and already looking forward to Daytona. Thanks for all you do, and hope to see you next year! I'm in an elimination pick 'em and I have the following left to choose from: 17, 1, 31.... I had Truex Jr. penciled in weeks ago as the best choice here...is he still the best bet of the bunch? Thanks again for everything! xox, malibu barbie.......p.s. have a great holdiay season!!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:05 PM)

All three of those drivers in pretty good shape..but I would rate the 17 the best...xox back at you and you too have a great holiday season!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:06 PM)

Retrieving the last of our crew chief notes be right back..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:06 PM)

Joe Gibbs Racing, Wally Brown, Crew Chief David Gilliland...Wally says theyve brought theirR and D chassis they ran at Charlotte and learned a lot from that race. The goal is to finish in the top 20 and stay on the lead lap...the question remains can they do it. He says the driver is more confident than the crew chief.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:07 PM)

TRG Motorsports, Bobby Labonte, driver of the 71 car...Bobby says the car is so-so...not great.He thinks they can pass some cars...but didnt seem thrilled.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:07 PM)

CR, Doug Randolph, Crew Chief Casey Mears...Randolph thinks they have a 10th to 15th placecar going into the race with a top 10 possible. He says the car isnt bad and seems to havegood speed. Its the same chassis they ran at Charlotte and Dover where they finished 7th and 17threspectivly.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:07 PM)

Coming back in a moment with top-6 picks etc...

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:18 PM)

Top 6 picks...5,14,2,17,29, and 11...sorry Alan in Pa..lol...2nd tier..48,24,9,31,18,42,1,16,39,99, and 88...Budget boys 1,44,88, and 21....A lot of people on Junior's bandwagon again...I'm rooting for him to go out with a bang..but he's been poison to my team...be right back with my team for the final week.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:21 PM)

Okay, here's my team today...5,9,17,1, and 21...now back to the questions.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:25 PM)

You know what...like a sugar addict looking for my next Krispy Kreme glazed donut fix...I've gone back to Junior one more time...just changed my team..here is is...final answer...5,29,17,1, and 88..now where are the Twinkie's the 88 left for me....

TJ (Patch)

Hey Guru! Help me out with my yahoo... I got the 48, 24; 42, 39, 1, 9; and the 47, 44. Thanks

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:26 PM)

24...9 and 1..44

Taylor (TX)

pick 2; 88, 14, 2

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:26 PM)

14 and 2

Karen (Pa)

HI Mark thanks for all your help this yr.. need some more...JJ or Stewart and Elliot or Hornish?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:26 PM)

Stewart...Elliott

Zardnok (S'Port)

I am gonna ride the horses that got me into first and hang on to the 48 and 5, but I am looking to swap 11-6-77 for the 29-31-21 to go with 48 and 5. Your thoughts??

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:27 PM)

If you're keeping 48 and 5...then I would definitely make that trade.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:27 PM)

If you're keeping 48 and 5...then I would definitely make that trade.

BUDWRENCH (BUFFALO)

Great Guru: How would you compare the 21 to the 02? Thanx

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:27 PM)

21 has decisive advantage today in my opinion.

Lou (Atl)

5 or 14?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:28 PM)

I'm going with the 5 but the 14 is going to be bad to the bone.

Corey Hodges (Kill Devil Hills, NC)

Hey, Guru! As I said on the Wednesday chat, thank you for all of your help this year. Enjoy the holidays!Now....My LU, as of now, consists of: 48, 11, 31, 1, 02I can mess around with some guys and get Tony, Jeff, etc. for Jimmie. As you said before, Jimmie most likely will "coast" to a top 10 today. Any substitutes for Denny? Thanks as always! Take care and see you at Daytona!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:30 PM)

I like the 2 more than 11..but you can open up cap space going with 17..Get rid of 48 for 14 and open up some more cap space so you can bump up from 02 to at least 21..If you really wanted to go for it..trade 11 for 29 and save a bunch of $$ that could really open up the bottom of your team..and you're welcome too!

Erik (LV)

Team A)5,14,29,1,21 or Team B)14,31,29,1,44

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:31 PM)

Erik, I like team A a little better.

Perplexed in PA (PA)

Sitting on 48, 11, 5, 88 and 77. Looking to turn it upside down this week and go with 5, 14, 17, 29 and Gilliland (what car is he driving this week - you said in an earlier post that 09 missed the show). Thoughts? Thanks for your help!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:32 PM)

Gilliland is driving the 02 which is a fourth car for Joe Gibbs. R and D deal..could run top-25 outside shot at 20th...other four guys really strong.

Beckie (FL)

Please rank the following cars for todays race: 2,18,16,99,31. Thanks for you help all season. Have a safe, happy holiday season. Can't wait for Daytona 2010.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:33 PM)

2,31,18,16 and 99...

JJ GLOOR (Hicksville)

well i need to make up 120 points i am in second and i need a couple of crazy picks ?? And will talk to ya next feb!! Hey Alan hope ya get out for next season!!!!!!!!!!!14,48,77,47,1 who should i keep ???Help

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:34 PM)

Dude..blow this team up..keep the 14 and 1 and work it out...You can definitely do better than 77 and 47...with 29 and 21 for instance..trade 48 for the 5 maybe...you've seen enough on the chat today to know what to do I think.

Kyle W (Taylorsville, KY)

14, 29, 31, 1, 44 is the way to go. Show me the fictitious money!!!What's the latest on Jeff Gordon, he's hard to read in practice.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:35 PM)

You're team looks good on paper...Gordon is a lot better than people think.

Kurt Busch (Eggs over MyHammy)

My Miller Lite Dodge will cruise to victory lane today. I will win this race. Do not listen to Garrow, he does not know these cars at all.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:36 PM)

what are you talking about dude? I've got you now as my number two pick...you could be Da Man today..excuse me for a second I've got to look up Jimmie Spencer's phone number...it's around here somewhere...

Mike (Los Angeles)

Mark, how do you like 5-14-29-1-21 for the big finale? 5-21 or 39-88?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:38 PM)

I could live with tha team..5-21 is going to be safer because there's a meteor about 48 million miles away from eath and if Junior's up front or leading later tonight..it will crush his car coming out of turn four on the last lap...

Tyler (Snohomish,Wa)

Mark, Casey Mears qualified ok but pracitced very well, should i run him today?

shine runner (anderson sc)

Even tho your prognostications didn't always prove to be fruitful your chat on Sundays was always entertaining and at least informative. What ya got for us this one last time?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:39 PM)

Well..I have been "on" now for over an hour and a half..surely there has to be something you've found enlightening..lol..

Nascar radio (featuring Jimmie)

I heard on Nascar radio on this past Friday when they interviewed Jimmie, he said they are going for the pole and going for the most laps, and the win, he said after what happen to Texas, they can't take a chance. Only repeating what THE MAN himself said.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:41 PM)

I know that's what he said..but what if three or four guy get up front and they try to take them three wide into turn one...who lifts..Johnson that's who..he has to...That's why he's such a big question mark today..under normal circumstances I might be touting him to win..but this isn't normal deal..

Cal (NYC)

What else can I do here 14,31,29,1,26?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:42 PM)

I might trade 26 for 44 and let her rip...26 is a possible sleeper and no doubt JMac going to go all out in last race for Roush.

kt (ny)

How do you feel about the 18 and the 11? any preference? thanks for all the help again this yr

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:42 PM)

Both are in good shape..I rate the 11 a little bit better.

Todd (Sidney, NE)

No question Guru, just a thank you for all your help this season. I've seldom made a pick this year without climbing to the mountain top to seek your wisdom. Looking forward to 2010, Jr's turnaround, and 'The Kid' finally getting his first Championship! Only 84 Days 4 Hours and 32 minutes until the Daytona 500! .

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:42 PM)

Thanks Todd..have a great winter.

Karen Stewart (Sidney, NE)

Thank you for your insight all year oh wise one it's been fun! Go Mark Martin!!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:43 PM)

Are you and Todd married...related..because what are the odds of two questions back to back popping up from Sidney, NE?

Scott (Durham)

What's the 5, 14, 29, 1 and 21 sound like?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:43 PM)

Looks pretty sporty to me..

Joe's Wife (FL)

Take care of yourself..many blessings and happy holidays Guru!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:43 PM)

Appreciate it...

Jay (Cincy)

Do you really believe Junior can pull off a decent finish this week?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:45 PM)

Look dude..I'm addicted to Junior...he's got to payoff some time right?...why not today? I went from a team I felt really comfortable with to one with Junior that has me gnawing my fingernails to the bone...THE GURU DOESN'T NEED ANYMORE STRESS!

Denny Hamlin (Homestead)

Tell Alan don't have a heart attack today I am coming from the back and will take Bradly out and then will WIN for Alan

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:46 PM)

As I told my daughter at her basketball game last night..."You go girlfriend!"

VIN ((CORBIN,KY) )

GURU, I HAD A EARLLY QUESTION BUT I HAVE CHANGES. WHICH TEAM WOULD YOU GO WITH 14-9-17-1-21 OR 14-2-31-88-21 ?????? THANK YOU

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:46 PM)

Vin, I'd go with the first one.

Jim (Nashville)

Kyle didnt want to share the spotlight last night with a race winner so he won the racwe, why don't you think JJJ won't do the same?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:47 PM)

If JJ was in a position that all he had to do was take the green flag and he's the champ...then he'd be going all out..no question...but he's in "tweener" land starting this race...two totally different deals.

Danny (NC)

which pair will score more points 14,21 or 31,44 thanks

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:47 PM)

Today, I'm going with 14 and 21..

Bobby "Tailgate" Jones (ArKANSAS)

17 or 11?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:47 PM)

17

Trey (Raleigh)

You're the best, guru. Which pair do I go with? (14 and 21) or (88 and 1)

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:49 PM)

I'd still stick with 14 and 21..although if Junior runs as well as people predict and actually finishes with no problems I'd say 88 and 1..what are the odds Junior finishes with no problems?..so 14 and 21 safer of the two.

Bill Scott (Lake Summerset, Il)

I've got my fingers crossed for "Garrows Caromo" I need help, the 20 or the 1?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:50 PM)

I hope you win it and let me drive it one more time..It is a swwwweeeet ride....take the 1.

John (PA)

Hey, looks like you only listed 5 for your picks, who is #6?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:51 PM)

John...you've got to slip the other sock off...just kidding..lol...here's what I had listed as my top six......Top 6 picks...5,14,2,17,29, and 11..that's six my man..

Danny (Tuscaloosa)

Mark,Help! Group A) 5, 17 B) 9,00,1,26 C) 12, 77 Pick 1 from Group A; Pick 2 from Group B and one from Group C! Thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:51 PM)

5..9-1....

Brian (Central, KY)

Hey GURU Thanks for another insightful year ! What is the potential point total for this team. 5,14,29,1,21... Thanks again and see you@ Daytona

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:52 PM)

That could be a 750+ my man...and you're welcome!

Matt (Mia)

Last Q. A)5,14,29,1,21 B)14,17,31,29,21

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:53 PM)

I'm thinking team A

Don Ellis (Kenosha, Wi)

I have 20,24,31,33,82. Any chance to beat anyone.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:54 PM)

You might be Alan in PA, but that might be it.

Jon (FL)

82 or 21 today?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:54 PM)

21

Todd (Sidney, NE)

Yes we are married, and she's 4th and I'm 5th in our League.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:54 PM)

So in other words..she's the brains...and you're the pants..lol..

Katrina (AL)

What can we expect from the 39? Debating 9 verses 39. 9 has been such a yo yo driver.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:55 PM)

You're right 9 has been a bit of a yo-yo, but he's really good on this type of track..I'm again rating 9 over 39.

scott (orlando)

hi guru, need one between 9-00-83 thanks and good luck

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:55 PM)

9

pj (duluth)

which one to go with the 29,31,1,44. the 5,14, or 2?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:56 PM)

29....5

Jordan (Berwyn,IL)

Guru Thanks for all your help this season you have been great. Ok so im 461 points ahead of the guy behind me and im in first and here is my lineup. 48-5-29-26-09. How do you think I am going to do should I switch anybody out?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:57 PM)

I guess you feel you have such a big lead you can pick a driver who didn't make the race?..09 did not make the show..so you'll have to try again..

Henry (Chase City,Va)

21 or 44 about where will they finish at

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:57 PM)

44 and 21 could both run around 15th but I rate the 44 just a little better..

Tin Cup (So Cal)

Hey, Mark Week 36...already?! Throwin' it all out there with a few "Our Father..." words for good measure: 5, 31, 29, 26, 44. Good luck today and have a great off- and Holiday Season. Cheers!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:58 PM)

Yo Tin Cup right back at ya...now trade the 26 for the 1..or you'll drive me crazy.

Jill (VT)

5, 17, 29, 1, 88...what do you think? Any changes you see? Have a great holiday season and thanks for your great work!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (1:59 PM)

Jill...a shout out back to my home state...great minds think alike you and me have the same team..which means with the 88, we'll either be heroes or zeroes...living in the penthouse or the outhouse!

Lisa (Indianapolis IN)

Mark, first a huge thank you for all the work you do including all the extra effort for us fantasy league crazi-ees. Have a great break! Now, business at hand I am so torn in my B drivers Kahne, McMurray, Truex and Reuti. I need the two best ! Thank you again Mark.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:00 PM)

Kahne and Truex and thanks for the mad props!

Bill Pickle (Beantown)

After reading the crew chief notes, I still can't decide between Reutimann and MacMurray. Can you decide for me Guru?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:01 PM)

I going to give that choice a reutti-toot-toot.

Malibu Barbie (*** P'Cola Florida ***)

gee, been called a few things but never..."big boy"!!!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:01 PM)

Did I really do that...I've seen your picture and you are definitely not a boy!...sorry about that.

Dr. N. Jeckshun (PA Mental Ward)

Mr. Garrow, we have decided to place Alan in cryogenic storage until February. Nurse Helga and Nurse Brunhilde are icing him down as we speak. There have been rumors of Denny Hamlin fans sending him #11 gear for Christmas and I'm afraid the stress will be too much. We'll be sure to have him warmed up to watch Mr. Hamlin win at Daytona.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:02 PM)

What would the season have been without Alan in Pa?..Alan just needs to chill and now he will..lol..

Rick (Pennsy)

Guru - you ROCK! Thanks for all your help through the chase. Now it's crunch time. I'm sitting on 48, 11, 5, 88 and 77 with 0.2 left. About the only one I like out of that whole bunch for today is the 5. I really need your insight. If I keep 5 (at +2.0), I'll have 76.9 to play with. I know that's pretty wide open, but any thoughts? Thanks!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:03 PM)

Rick there's a lot of help today.down low with the 17,29,31, and 1..they can mix and match nicely with the 5.

Nurse Helga (Allan Town Mental Ward)

Mark did you hear that Allan is trying to bribe Kez to take out Denny today? Said he would Fed Ex him the money. Now where is my thermometer........

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:04 PM)

That's cold..and I'm not talking about the bribe!

Ryan (Roswell)

Guru, im sure my questions have been answered already but haven't read through the chat yet. Just wanted to say thanks for a great season and see you February.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:04 PM)

Thanks man.

Big T (wyoming)

Guru do I pick the 21 over the 12 and 02?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:04 PM)

I think so.

Karen Stewart (Sidney, NE)

I like you Mark!

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:05 PM)

Now, if I could only get my wife to say the same thing!

scott (orlando)

guru you posted my question but gave no answer for which one between 9-00-83

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:05 PM)

oops...9

Wayne (Gananoque, ON, Canada)

who's best 9 or 17

Dog (The Glen)

17 or 24 or 48

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:05 PM)

I'm going to go with 17..

WMac (Eglin AFB, FL)

Hey Guru, Have a great off season your take 31,21 or 1,88

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:07 PM)

oh what the heck man...roll the dice 31 and 21 really safe...1 and 88 out there man..so go for it ...dare to be great..go out both guns blazing..1 and 88...and again thanks for your service to this country.

Denny (Homestead)

Who do I need to worry about more Keslo or Alan in PA

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:07 PM)

Probably Keslo..outside the track you can always get a restraining order against Alan in PA...

steve (pa)

is bill elliot REALLY a safe top-20?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:08 PM)

Yes, I do believe he'll run pretty well today.

scott (orlando)

thanks guru, and thanks for all the help this year. have a great holiday season and great off season and we will see you next year same place same time same chanel God bless

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:08 PM)

and the creek don't rise..lol..thanks.

Carlos (Windsor,Ontario)

greetings Guru, whatcha think of this lineup , is it money ??? 1,5,26,29,48

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:09 PM)

What the 48 is going to do concerns me...26 scares me..

For the Win (Question)

I am #1, the guy behind me has Kurt, I have Tony, other than that our teams are alike....who would you think will score higher?? I know, take out the crystal ball..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:09 PM)

It really is a toss-up man..but I rated Kurt second today behind Martin..Tony third.

24 Fan (Sunny Florida)

looks like 9,1, your picks over 39 and 00. Do you think 9 and 1 can both stay out of trouble.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:10 PM)

Yes, I do.

Imo (WYO)

Mark, do I pick the 14 over the 2 and 5?

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:10 PM)

I have them rated 5,2,and 14...not a lot of difference between the three.,

Ken (raleigh nc)

Need two,,,,,,9, 42, 1, 00need one....44, 47

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:10 PM)

9,42..........44

Cory (vt)

Team A- 5,14,29,1,21 Team B-14,17,29,1,44 thank you guru

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:11 PM)

Team A

Brad (Nashville, TN)

Hey Guru, what do you think about this line-up? 14, 5, 18, 88, 21Thanks.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:11 PM)

On paper it has a lot of po-tential.

KJH (Wake Forest nc)

Hope you get this one...only 16b points out of 1st.need 1 - 5 or 18need 2 - 00, 1, 9, 42need 1 - 47, 44

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:12 PM)

5...9-42 safest...9-1 might score a few more points...44

Lory (Visalia, CA)

Hi Mark, I don't have a question, just lots of PROPS!!! Thanks for a great year and I hope you have a wonderful offseason. For me, the race hasn't started and I'm already going thru withdrawls, lol.

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:13 PM)

withdrawals from the Guru or the race?..thanks for the props..

Mark "Guru" Garrow

  (2:17 PM)

Okay folks I've got to run have been on now for over 2:15..it's been great as usual...thanks for all your compliments and support..Again, Please keep one of our regulars Ken in NC in your prayers..He really needs them...The whole year has been a blast and I'm going to miss you guys..but it won't be long and we'll be running around the garage at Daytona..Have a great holiday season too...So one last time let's sound the trumpets...and with his head held high and with what little dignity he has left...it must be announced "The Gur has left the building"!