News-Record.com

Today's race doesn't start until 4, so if you're looking for an excuse to get out of raking leaves (and they've all decided to fall today here at Casa Del Spotter), here are some things to occupy your time:

Gil LeBreton of the Ft. Worth Star Telegram: Racing sure has changed a lot since the old days.

John Sturbin, LeBreton's fellow columnist: Texas Motor Speedway is one ornery track.

The Scotsman is doing his usual stout job of photo- and word-blogging all of the Cup/Busch/Truck goings-on this weekend.

File under "N" for "No kidding (/sarcasm": David (The Blogger, Not the Driver) Green discovers race tracks outside the south: "Fellow Southerners, you may not want to read this, but it's true: We don't have a monopoly on any form of auto racing, not even stock cars."

One Bad Wheel has pictures from TMS. (He has a great seat.)

Diecast Dude and CJ don't like crying in victory lane. (My take: I'm tired of public displays of grief. But if Kevin Harvick had wanted to mourn in peace, he would have stayed home this weekend.)

Burney Lamar (one of the great names in racing these days) will drive the No. 77 next season in the Busch Series for Kevin Harvick

Virginia Tech football: Overrated (Had to add that - there are other things going on in sports this fall other than football. Plus, it's true.) Our sister paper in Roanoke has pics, audio and more.

Y'all have fun. I'll catch you after the race.