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Monday, January 12 Updated: January 22, 3:16 PM ET  Comments on Cup drivers ESPN.com We spotlighted Cup drivers Bobby Labonte, Terry Labonte, Sterling Marlin and Mark Martin. Here are your thoughts on their '03 campaigns and prospects for next season:
Steve Goodlettsville, Tenn.
As a Sterling Marlin fan I hope he has a comeback season. He suffered a lot of bad luck in 2003 since he usually qualified poorly and was stuck in the back with all the "riff raff." I think if he struggles in 2004 he will be forced to retire at season's end. Michael Layne Jasper, Tenn.
I feel like Sterling will make a big comeback this year. Look at his Daytona test speeds. He will be in the top-10 all year! This will be Sterling's year. Ran Guennel Gilbertsville, Ky.
It was disappointing to see Sterling have such an up and down year. Since he is one of the good guys I hope that he can rebound and get off to a start like he did in 2002 but have a better finish. Ed Escher Kimberly, Idaho
As Sterling's biggest fan, I sure hope he can get back to 2002 form this year. Unfortunately, I have to agree that if he has another year like last year, Chip Ganassi will likely trade him in on a newer model at the end of the year. I'm gonna be rooting for him to come out strong and stay that way. Lisa Ard Elberta, Ala.
Wayne Begarly Knoxville, Tenn.
Martin is the best driver in my opinion. I believe that a driver who can stay out of the spotlight as much as he does with as much exposure as NASCAR has nowadays is amazing. He has had some bad luck the last couple years, but I know that he will be a champion (with a trophy) someday before he retires. Terri A DeBarr Greenwich, Ohio
Have been a Martin fan since 1989, I believe '03 to be Mark's worse year to date. As a big fan I just hope Mark has not lost focus now that his son Matt is racing. For the '04 season if Mark has some luck, good cars and engines, I think his talent is equal to any driver on the circuit. Also, sometimes I think Mark is too nice a guy on the track to end up as champion. Marvin Arnold Milan, Ill.
I see no reason why Mark can't have a solid year and even contend for the championship. I think last year was a case of misfortune and lack of power in the Ford cars. This year I think you will see Mark along with all the Ford drivers be real strong. When he has a solid car behind him, you see the results. With a new crew chief I think the sky is the limit for Mark Martin. Tim Tobin Perkasie, Pa.
Mark Martin will always be a contender for as long as he wishes to strap on a helmet. I hope he steps up his qualifying efforts and thus stays clear of other peoples misfortunes. I can't think of anyone more consistently world class fast than Mark on a roll of good luck. Chris Smith Bloomington, Calif.
Lyndi Koopman Hudsonville, Mich.
Very good '03 for Terry. But let's be honest, Kyle Busch will be in this car by the '05 season. So good luck Terry in '04. Hendrick will not want you to do well so he can justify replacing you for Busch in '05. Todd Blackburn Jonesboro, Ind.
Texas Terry doesn't get the credit he deserves and he'll surprise the naysayers again in 2004. This season the 5 team will be on their game and Terry will take it to the field. The softer tires should only help Terry more. The Iceman will score multiple wins and challenge for the Cup. Ed Daly Boston
Terry has always had the mark of consistency. I would expect that he will run well in 2004 and 2005 as the team have found its feet again. I know that things tapered off in the late stages of 2003, but I am sure that they will run in top 10 during the 500 and likely keep up their top 15 form from last summer. Look for Terry to be fourth to ninth in the points at the end of 2004. Philip Burnham Florida
Terry is back in the top five for 2004. Hendrick needs to remember Terry is as good as it gets and help him like he helps Jeff Gordon. I always thought Terry was there to help test for Jeff and was left out of the loop. Terry has what it takes to make a great champion. Gayle McCullar Canyon, Texas
Phebe Rogers Loranger, La.
They'll be no stopping him now, especially after that win at Homestead. That just pumped him up for the start of this season. And I'm ready to watch him do it every week. He's not so bad to look at either. Leslie Monzo Clark, N.J.
Bobby will be back on his game and on top of the standings. His teammate will be right there with him. Chris Podniestrzanski Temple Terrace, Fla.
I don't think Gibbs going back to the NFL is going to hurt the Cup team. Bobby being a veteran driver and fairly new "Fatback" being at helm as crew chief is going to do fine. Bobby and Fatback seem to work well with each other. Pat Williams Owego, N.Y.
I think the phrase "Quiet Desperation" fits Bobby Labonte perfectly. He knows what he wants from his car, his team and himself. But when things go sour, he does not complain openly (on camera). He doesn't throw objects at fellow competitors, etc. He climbs back up on the proverbial horse and tries again next week. In my opinion, the 18 team will be a force to be reckoned with in 2004. Kathleen Simmer Perkasie, Pa.  Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories
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