Let me go out on a limb with this statement – the 2010 version of the NASCAR Sprint Cup “playoff” is any one of the 12 competitor’s to win!

More so than in years past, there really isn’t a clear cut favorite in 2010. Momentum hasn’t attached itself to any single team this season.

Points leader Denny Hamlin has faded in previous Chases. Kevin Harvick recently stated he views himself as an underdog in the Chase – in spite of an outstanding “regular season.” Fan favorite Jeff Gordon has yet to win in 2010. Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch and Greg Biffle have all been strong at various points in the season. And, it is unrealistic to count out the #48 team for a fifth consecutive trophy.

If I were to pick a driver to hoist the 2010 Championship trophy, however, he would come from the RCR stable. Harvick ranks 3rd starting the Chase, and he has had arguably the best campaign of his professional career. Jeff Burton (10th) has been on the brink of a breakthrough all year, and Clint Bowyer (12th) has weathered the most pressure of any driver in the series during the past three events – defending his final Chase position.

And, at the end of the day, it’s all about which team can withstand the Championship pressure. Week one at Loudon will be very telling. If Bowyer prevails with a victory, my money will be on the #33 to cash in as the 2010 Champion at Homestead.