Let the playoffs begin

Above: Tony Pedregon hopes to rise above the rest in the NHRA playoffs.

The NHRA begins is third "playoff" season beginning today when qualifying starts for the NHRA Carolinas Nationals in Charlotte, N.C.
Here's who I like to be give championship speeches at the NHRA Awards Ceremony in November:

Top Fuel: Larry Dixon - Antron Brown has been the dominant competitor in the class, but I learned long ago never to bet against Alan Johnson, who is usually unbeatable in the fall. I don't see no reason to believe that will change.

Funny Car: Tony Pedregon - It's been a tight class, with Ron Capps scoring wins early, but Pedregon has come on in the summer, and despite losing his crew chief, Dickie Venables, has been very consistent the past few events and that may be the key to winning. But if you are looking for a dark horse, look no further than icon John Force, who has extra motivation now.

Pro Stock: Jeg Coughlin Jr. - Jeggie has been the one to beat all season, and he's shown the ability to step up the past two falls. No reason for that to change this year.