Analysis
NASCAR Cup Homestead
Hamlin flexes his muscles during Saturday's practice sessions
The four title contenders got their final chance to set their machines up earlier today.
Nick DeGroot
Edited: Nov 16, 2014, 6:17 AM
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All practice and qualifying sessions are now complete and all that remains is 400 intense miles of action as the final four fight it out for the coveted Sprint Cup.
Both Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano looked like they could macth the blistering fast No. 4 Chevrolet of Kevin Harvick on Saturday. Dark Horse Ryan Newman trailed the trio and will start mid-pack tomorrow.
When all was said and done, a voice came over Hamlin's radio, confidently proclaiming, "Yep, we're going to beat them." Hamlin simply replied, "Damn straight."
Hamlin looking strong, but Harvick still very fast
The lone Toyota in the final four was fastest among the contenders in regards to ten consecutive lap averages. Harvick continued to show he may very well be the man to beat tomorrow though, laying down the fastest lap in the second practice. He did complain about being too loose on exit though, while Hamlin suffered a tigh condition that hindered his efforts through the center of the corner.
Logano was trying the high line, and by high line, I mean the Larson high line; mere inches from touching the wall. He did indeed brush up against it a couple times as a result, but he was also fast. However, the No. 22 didn't seem able to maintain a strong pace over a long run, in comparison to Hamlin.
Newman's pursuit to be the spoiler
Newman's tumultuous weekend continued on Saturday. He ended up hitting a piece of debris, which prompted the driver of the No. 31 to request a new front splitter. He also lost practice time when a right front bead blower went bad. His times seemed to improve when he had more laps on the tires, which showed up in the ten consecutive lap averages. He is still a bit off from those front three though.
From the editor, also read:
- Title contenders take to the track for the first time Friday
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