Open Race Thread: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series LENOX Industrial Tool 301 | New Hampshire Motor Speedway

Tick-tock - the clock is ticking on those trying to make the Chase for the Championship and New Hampshire will present a bit of a wild card element.

There will be several accidents and it’s likely that it will decide the outcome of the race. Unlike most ‘short tracks,’ clean air is the most deciding factor and staying out front is the key to avoiding a multi-car pile-up.

Two drivers are synonymous with New Hampshire and enter today’s race as the favorites - Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart.

It must sound silly to mention Jeff Gordon as a favorite anywhere in 2012 but this is a team that is in full-desperation mode. That will ultimately propel them to at least one win before the Chase begins, but it is unclear whether or not that will be enough to make the Chase. Gordon has three career wins at New Hampshire and has led laps every race here over the last two years.

But only one driver has finished in the top-five in the last two races at New Hampshire - Tony Stewart. He also dramatically won the last race here, race two of the Chase for the Championship, on his incredible run towards the series championship.

Stewart’s also a safer pick on momentum alone. He has three wins this year, including a surprise victory last week at Daytona.

The cream rises to the crop at New Hampshire and the Lenox Industrial Tools 301 will be a statement race for someone. Stay tuned.

Did Not Qualify: # 19 Mike Bliss(i).
Manufacturer Starting Lineup DNQs Manufacturer Starting Lineup DNQs
Chevrolet 17 0 Ford 12 0