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Monday, January 5
Updated: January 19, 5:23 PM ET

Comments on Cup drivers
ESPN.com

We spotlighted Cup drivers Kevin Harvick, Dale Jarrett, Jimmie Johnson and Matt Kenseth. Here are your thoughts on their '03 campaigns and prospects for next season:


	Harvick

I disagree with you on this one for every time he gets a big ego he falls down. After last year he is full of himself as usual and he will stumble in 04'. I think a finish of 11-20 for him next year. Mark my words.

As for Kenseth, to be a champ is grand but to repeat the next year is almost a miracle. So I predict a top 10 next year and two to four wins. I will say it is so very nice to see a good guy win the cup. Kudos to Roush and Mark M. for giving this guy a chance in NASCAR.

Todd Blackburn
Jonesboro, Ind.

Kevin Harvick has greatly matured in the past three seasons as a Cup driver. Last year he surpassed everyone's expectations and had an incredible season. He is the first driver to win the Brickyard 400 from the pole. His talent is amazing; his determination is strong and steadfast. It's time for other drivers and the media to stand up and get ready to give Kevin Harvick the recognition he deserves.

By the end of the 2004 season, no one will doubt Kevin's ability and desire.

Lisa Reed
Yucaipa, Calif.

This will be RCR/Harvick's year, with his temper showing, but in check; and as outspoken as ever, that's why his fans love him because he is not afraid to say what he thinks and backs it up.

Joni Northcutt
Miami

I agree with everything said about Harvick's career so far. It seemed like no matter how hard Harvick raced, he just couldn't stay on the lead lap in 2002. 2003 not only saw Harvick on the lead lap, but he was battling for the lead. I strongly believe he will be a contender in 2004, but as for a championship, we'll have to wait and see. He's also my sure bet to win the Daytona 500. He has the momentum!

Rob Philibert
Concord, N.H.


	Jarrett

Dale Jarrett doesn't quit! He's the best driver on the track and he's a gentleman. He, along with his team will get the No. 88 back to championship form.

Christie
American Fork, Utah

Of all of the over-40 drivers, Jarrett is the one that can still make a serious run at the Nextel Cup. Outside of Jeff Gordon, he has the most wins since 1996. Look for the 88 to finish in the top 10, probably around eighth or ninth along with two to three wins.

Jason T.
Texas

Dale Jarrett has not forgotten how to drive a race car. Some unfortunate politics and other things were the cause of his dismal 2003 season. With a new crew chief, and hopefully some stability at Robert Yates Racing will get Dale Jarrett back up to the front where he and his team belong.

Danny Coulson
Austin, Texas

I have been a Jarrett fan since I started to follow NASCAR. The one thing I have noticed is that Jarrett does not seem to be a team player during the race. Many times when he could help his teammate, he has left him stranded. Which I think was the reason that Ricky Rudd left. I think this is reflected when Elliott Sadler was interviewed after a couple of races. Unlike Matt Kenseth who is always there trying to help his teammates. Matt will be in the top three at the end of the year, but I don't think the 88 team will be any higher than 10th.

Gary Stives
Riverdale, Md.


	Johnson

Johnson will definitely win the title this year. He has matured as a person and as a driver. He has learned how to get the job done when it matters the most, and I believe that it will bring him to the top in the 2004 season. As for stepping completely out of Jeff Gordon's shadow, he'll be completely on his own after the first three races.

Bethany Vesper
Tulsa, Okla.

I think its fair to say that Johnson will be the favorite to win the Nextel Cup. He, like Kenseth is a more consistent driver than most. The only way I can see him not finished top three in points is either Ryan Newman mixing in a top five with those wins, or if this new proposed 10 race playoff (ugh) causes a real cluster.

Dan
Dallas

I am sure that Rick Hendrick will buy Jimmie a championship just as he bought four for Gordon.

Kelly Daugherty
Bethel, Ohio

This guy is an incredible talent. He and Ryan Newman are the future long term stars of the Nextel Cup series. Look for a top three finish in 2004 if he can figure out the new tires and spoiler.

Brian Hubbard
Ashtabula, Ohio


	Kenseth

What is this baloney about Kenseth having to change ways if the points system changes? Do any of you actually believe the guy was soft-pedalling at any point this season? Really now? With the number of top fives and top 10s you can't be accused of taking it easy. Especially when you look at where he started in many of those races -- at or near the back! The point system doesn't need changing and Kenseth earned the title fair and square. Those guys (and I mean pretty much everyone) go out every weekend and race for the win, Kenseth included. He doesn't need to change anything in the way he drives or prepares for any race.

Tony Karais
Beaverton, Ore.

Although he doesn't get the proper kudos for being the worthy champion he is, Kenseth is truly one of the best in the business. In 2004, Kenseth should again be in the title mix due to his consistency, strong team, and his impeccable driving skill. Hey, this guy is THE smoothest driver on the circuit! As DW says, he is the next David Pearson. While many people criticized Kenseth for not having many wins in 2003, they must have short memories because this guy lead the league two years ago in wins. Plain and simple, Kenseth can win, he keeps his nose (and fenders) clean, and he knows the racecar inside and out. You just may be looking at the last Winston Cup Champion, and the first Nextel Cup Champion. One thing's for sure, he will be in the mix.

Matthew Latus
Green Bay, Wisc.

Matt's level head, consistent style will make him a contender again this year. The team got more and more conservative as the points lead got bigger and bigger. If they can return to the aggressive style that produced five wins in 2002, Matt will be fine. And if luck is on his side again this year, Matt will be the first Nextel Cup Champion.

Russell Kehl
Los Angeles

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