Breaking Down the Top-12 Drivers, Part 4.

4. Matt Kenseth - In 2007, Matt Kenseth consistently put together top-10 finishes. Unfortunately for him, those top-10 finishes were usually followed by a few poor finishes. Kenseth won 2 races in 2007, on opposite ends of the schedule (California in February and Homestead-Miami in November), and had a strong second half of the Chase. Longtime friend and crew chief Robbie Reiser will be stepping into a more managerial role within Roush-Fenway Racing, leaving Kenseth with new crew chief Chip Bolin. It may take some time for the new duo to get used to each other and form some chemistry, but I expect Kenseth to make the Chase once again. Kenseth will undoubtedly win 2 or 3 races, but like most everybody else, will have to contend with Hendrick powerhouse.

3. Clint Bowyer - Clint Bowyer was the Cinderella story of 2007, forming great chemistry with crew chief Gil Martin, and competing with the likes of Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon for the Nextel Cup title. This season, Bowyer needs to prove it wasn't a fluke and solidify himself as a potential Cup champion. Bowyer needs to stay comfortable and focused, because with so much competition, the top-10 finishes Bowyer found himself acquiring last season could be harder to find this time around.

Aaron Larsen