Pre-Race Predictions: Atlanta

 

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    It is hard to believe that the NASCAR Cup Series will be racing their 6th race of the 2021 season at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend.  The "Folds of Honor" QuikTrip 500 will take place on March 21st, at 3:00 PM EST, and will be aired live on FOX.

The last four events at Atlanta Motor Speedway have been won by only two different drivers. Brad Keselowski and Kevin Harvick. Harvick won last years' event, which was was put on hold due to NASCAR's shutdown from COVID-19. 

Drivers to watch for the win:

• Kevin Harvick [No. 4 Ford / Stewart-Haas Racing] - This was the site of his first win, which was in 2001, driving the No. 29, replacing the late Dale Earnhardt.
• Kyle Busch [No. 18 Toyota / Joe Gibbs Racing] - Busch led a total of only 7 laps in last years' event, but does have 2 wins here. So don't count him out just yet.
• Kurt Busch [No. 1 Chevrolet / Chip Ganassi Racing] - Beating younger brother Kyle with 3 wins at Atlanta Motor Speedway, will be a driver to watch as well.
• Ryan Newman [No. 6 Ford / Roush-Fenway Racing] - No wins yet for Newman here, but could he show some speed this weekend? Maybe!
• Brad Keselowski [No. 2 Ford / Team Penske] - Two-time winner at Atlanta, could Keselowski take his first win of 2021 here?

Drivers to watch for a good finish, or maybe even the win:

• Martin Truex, Jr. [No. 19 Toyota / Joe Gibbs Racing] 
• Chase Elliott [No. 9 Chevrolet / Hendrick Motorsports]
• Kyle Larson [No. 5 Chevrolet / Hendrick Motorsports]

Who knows we may just have another surprise winner this weekend, at Atlanta, we’ll just have to wait and see. Did I miss someone who you think might win here? Place your picks in the comments below!