NASCAR Cup Series: Ranking the 8 round of 8 drivers

8th and 7th

8. Kurt Busch

The 2004 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series champion enters the round of 8 in a fifth place tie in points, three points below the Championship 4 cut line.

After picking up steam in late summer, Kurt Busch has proven that he has what it takes to make a deep playoff run. Unfortunately for him, he has lost his glimmer halfway through the playoffs. After finishing in 18th place or worse in three of the first six playoff races, his championship odds have taken a dip.

When I look at Busch, I see a playoff spot filler. He doesn’t have swagger and he doesn’t have an advantage. He is in the same spot he is every year around this time. He is just another driver who is hoping for a miracle.

7. Clint Bowyer

Much like his teammate Kurt Busch, Clint Bowyer hasn’t been what many thought he would be in the playoffs. Remember when the media tried to push the “Big Four” propaganda? That ship has sailed, sank and left for dead.

I’ve continued to preach from the beginning that Bowyer doesn’t have what it takes to close the deal on a championship. Obviously, we’ve seen him showcase winning speed every few weeks, but the writing is on the wall for him.

The Kansas native did win the race at Martinsville Speedway earlier this season, but his 14.33 average finish through the first six playoff races isn’t going to be enough to push him past four other competitors and into the Championship 4. I’ve said all year that Bowyer is far from a true title contender, and this round will likely prove this more than ever.