Toyota/Save Mart 350 Preview

I've given you the lineup numerous times for the Toyota/Save Mart 350, so here it is on NASCAR.com.

I know most people don't like it, but I love watching a Cup race at Sonoma. The specialist, who haven't done too well this week, the good road-course racers in the series, and the bad/inexperienced ones mesh in to create an entertaining race.

Qualifying is very important at Infineon Raceway. Passing is almost impossible, with only two or three corners that really offer an opportunity. Therefore, those starting at the back, ala Kevin Harvick and Tony Stewart, will have a difficult time coming to the front.

Therefore, strategy will be very important tomorrow. You'll see many crew chiefs gamble to get track position, which you need at this track. As we saw last week at Michigan, this can sometimes lead to a win. Whoever uses the best strategy may well be the winner.

Another thing I love about this race is the fact that drivers can't make a mistake. One bad turn on a slippery surface usually means a car spinning out, which puts them in the back. And, we all know that you can't really come to the front from there. Therefore, drivers will try as hard as they can to not make one single mistake. Their full concentration is needed for this hard task.

So when you look at the contenders, you'd think of the specialists, Jeff Gordon, Robby Gordon, Clint Bowyer, Kasey Kahne, and even Stewart and Harvick, even if they're starting in the back.

For my prediction, I'll go with Jeff Gordon. He's just so good on this track, and needs a win badly. Enjoy the race everyone!