It’s not looking good for Ward Burton to qualify for Daytona. Scattered thunder showers are forecasted throughout today and tomorrow.

I guess now is as good a time as any to discuss that top-35 rule. It was brought up on my last entry.

I think that there’s something to be said for being in the top 12 in points, which are the positions that secure a spot for the Chase for the NEXTEL Cup championship. Therefore, why can’t they guarantee the top 12 or 15 cars a qualifying position while all others qualify on speed?

A part of me feels that all cars, regardless of where they stand in the points, should have to qualify in. BUT, the other side of me feels that there should be a benefit to being in that top 15 or so… Those drivers and teams should be able to come to the track feeling a little bit easier about getting in the race.

There have been races where Ward or Michael Waltrip would have been able to get in on speed had it not been for the top-35 rule. It would also be more fair to those drivers when weather plays a role in qualifying, like it may this weekend.

So there you have it…my opinion on how the top-35 rule should be, or shouldn't be, I guess.

What are your thoughts about it?