Paula Thompson's 2011 Championship Picks

Picking a champ before the season is a difficult task but it's one we like to do. It's Paula's turn to share who she thinks has it in 2011. Agree or disagree? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Sprint Cup Series – Kevin Harvick

Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR

Harvick was consistent in 2010, and closer points should reward such consistency. He has also proven he can win, and has a great crew at Richard Childress Racing behind him. RCR is a Sprint Cup contender every year, and to return to form during the 10th anniversary year of Dale Earnhardt’s passing would be a fitting way to honor the seven-time champ’s memory.

Nationwide Series – Elliott Sadler

Combine Sadler’s experience with equipment from Kevin Harvick Inc. and Sadler gets the title he deserves. He proved he can still win when he took the inaugural Truck Series race at Pocono in 2010 – with KHI equipment. Some may see this as a step backward for Sadler, but he seems rejuvenated. This may be just the confidence boost he needs, and the boost KHI needs to step up to Cup in the next few years.

Camping World Truck Series – Austin Dillon

Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR

While I’d love to see Todd Bodine win a second straight title, I really think that Dillon learned enough in one season to take the #3 back to the championship. The question mark will be whether or not Dillon can keep his youthful enthusiasm  in check. If he can, it's his title.