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The big change to NASCAR's chase is ... they're letting in two more drivers and doing away with the 400-point rule that baffled everyone (including my copy desk) that doesn't follow NASCAR.
They're also giving 5 more points for each win. When the Chase starts, drivers are seeded not on their points rank after the first 26 races but on how many races they won.
Here's one version of the story - scroll down for the handy chart that shows what the 2006 Chase might have looked like had the 2007 system been in place.
No, I don't see much difference either. What's your take? Spam the comments. I'll chew on it overnight and come back at ya Tuesday.
Comments (1)
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A phrase comes to mind: "the more things change, the more they remain the same."
Assuming NASCAR cited all the differences (and why wouldn't they?) they could only come up with three past seasons going back to 1975 where the new system would have changed the outcome.
And one of those was 1992. Under the new system Kulwicki still would have won but by a single point, not by 11.
End result of their changes (if history is a valid predictor) we may see a different winner from now until 2039. (and the winner will drive something powered by fermented goats milk and resemble something out of Minority Report)
Changes that SHOULD have been made:
Champ provisionals should have been capped to no more than 3-5 per season and the 35 rule should have been cut to the top 20 in points vice 35.
Laps led points should have been limited to only those laps led under green flag conditions.
Posted on January 22, 2007 10:56 PM