With 22 dates on the 2012 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series schedule mistakes by championship contenders will be even more costly this season. Last year’s 25-race tour produced a close title fight with Austin Dillon claiming his first championship in the final round at Homestead.

The shortened schedule could make things a little tighter and with Dillon moving up to Nationwide a new name will be at the top of the standings when the 2012 season is complete.

My predictions for the outcome of the 2012 NASCAR Truck Series. These will adjust as the season progresses:

1. James Buescher - Same Team, Same Crew Chief and could have been in contention for the title in Homestead if not for a DNQ at Phoenix.
2. Ron Hornaday – In contention for the title until the second to last race at Texas.
3. Johnny Sauter – A move to Toyota could put him behind early in the season.
4. Joey Coulter- Should improve from his rookie campaign.
5. Ty Dillon –Truck is the same that one the title last year for Austin Dillon.
6. Matt Crafton – Improvement from last season but could see no wins this season.
7. Timothy Peters – I look for Red Horse Racing to improve as an organization but I do not think that means a higher points finish.
8. Todd Bodine –See above.
9. Nelson Piquet Jr. – Could see marked improvements if he can connect with Turner Trucks early in the season.
10. Max Gresham –Rookie but will drive for Joe Denette Motorsports and will have the best Truck Series driver ever at his disposal to learn from.

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