It May Not Be In Vegas, But Bet On A Win For Waltrip In '09

Making predictions are a craps shoot at best. But if the first two races of the Sprint Cup season are any indication of events yet to come, I'm betting that Michael Waltrip will be in Victory Lane at least once in 2009 (and not just to congratulate a competitor).

Call me crazy, but Waltrip has looked (dare I say it?) impressive, in both the Daytona and Fontana races. He's been running well, racing consistently and he's been there at the end finishing strong both times.

Compare the two races we've seen so far with his stats from 2008. This year, Waltrip snagged a 7th-place finish at Daytona and a 15th at Fontana. Last year he finished 29th and 28th, respectively. This year, he is currently ranked 7th in points, with 264 to his credit. By this time last year, he had only racked up a measly 160.

Don't be discouraged. I'm sure this new and improved Waltrip won't fail to disappoint. There will still be days when he'll pit backwards. Who knows? He may even take another stab at adding "alternative fuel" to his Toyota. After all, a leopard doesn't change his spots.

But, for the time being at least, it looks like 2009 is going to be a good year. And this chick predicts Waltrip will take the checkers.

Care to double down on that?