Sam Hornish can breathe easier. Dario Franchitti can not. Michael Waltrip will drive into Martinsville, the weight lighter on his shoulder. Bill Davis will not.
After five races in 2008, the guaranteed spots for each race this year have now been established. Out with last year's Top 35 and in with this year's group. And, while we talk in terms of drivers, the top 35 is derived from the car owners list.
The one team no one expected to be outside the Top 35 following Bristol - the No. 26 driven by Jamie McMurray. McMurray's team missed the cut by four points. Dave Blaney is another 18 points back in 37th. Franchitti is 15 behind Blaney and the list goes on.
With the retirement of Dale Jarrett there is no driver outside the top 35 who is a former champion. Realistically, 11 teams will be vying for seven spots. At Bristol this weekend there were only 46 entries.
The facts may make Patrick Carpentier breathe just a bit easier, but only a bit. Carpentier is clearly four or five good finishes from climbing into a more secure top 35 position.
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