Preparing For The Final Stretch Run

Preparing For The Final Stretch Run

This is the last weekend off for NASCAR Camping World Truck Series teams as the schedule concludes with five consecutive races to bring the 2013 season to a close.

Matt Crafton enjoys the largest points lead (41) in any of NASCAR’s three national series, but there is still a lot of racing to go before the champion is crowned Nov. 15 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

While Crafton’s lead appears to be large, the next race on the schedule - the Fred’s 250 at Talladega Superspeedway - could really scramble the standings.

Judged by last year’s results at Talladega, this race could give both of Crafton’s pursuers, James Buescher and Ty Dillon a chance to close the margin. Crafton finished 18th last year while Buescher and Dillon were third and fourth, respectively. While that wouldn’t be enough for either to overhaul Crafton in just one race, it could set the tone for the remaining four events.

The five-race stretch equals the greatest number of back-to-back races on the schedule this season and the team that can deal with the pressures and challenges of the remaining events likely will have the inside shot to the title.

While Crafton’s lead is not insurmountable, it will definitely be a challenge for any driver chasing the Tulare, Calif. native who is seeking his first NASCAR national series title.

Crafton finished the final five races with an average finish of 12.0 in 2012 while Buescher finished the five-race run with an average finish of 10.0. Two positions will not be enough to top Crafton, but the reigning series champion likely will make Crafton earn the title.