Daytona 500 predictions by NASCAR.com staff

Zack Albert Brad Keselowski. With a strong restrictor-plate acumen, all the variables set to finally align for the No. 2 crew at the Great American Race. Allie Davison Joey Logano. The only way to wipe away last year's 'horror film' season is with a win ... and making a splash in the season-opener is just the ticket. The Team Penske driver has been conservative so far during Speedweeks, but that's what a winner does: Seizes the right moment. Pat DeCola Joey Logano. The Team Penske driver's redemption tour kicks off early, as Logano becomes the latest two-time winner of the Great American Race. His teammates each already have wins during Speedweeks, but it's Logano this time who will land in Victory Lane -- in the biggest one of 'em all. [caption id="attachment_98960" align="alignright" width="300"] Chris Graythen | Getty Images[/caption] RJ Kraft Clint Bowyer. Fords have been dominant at the plate tracks and the veteran breaks his winless drought in a big way. Jonathan Merryman Brad Keselowski. Starting from the rear of the field is no problem for Keselowski. I think he gets out front, and when he does, he will be very hard to pass. Brad Norman Kyle Larson. Yeah, the Fords are fast this weekend, but it's Daytona. The Joe Gibbs guys lurk late, but ultimately, it's Larson outrunning the field to the checkered. Jessica Ruffin Joey Logano. The Fords have proven to be the cars to beat in the long run at Daytona, and Team Penske’s Logano has the plate prowess to be patient when he needs to be (and aggressive when coming to the checkered). Kathy Sheldon Joey Logano. Team Penske has put the speed in Speedweeks, and Logano's been biding his time, not pushing the issue in the preliminaries. Expect him to be more aggressive in the Daytona 500 and seize the checkered flag. [caption id="attachment_104585" align="alignleft" width="300"] Sarah Crabill | Getty Images[/caption] Chase Wilhelm Ryan Blaney. After coming so close to winning the Daytona 500 with a runner-up finish last year, Blaney has showcased some serious muscle throughout Speedweeks in his new Team Penske ride. He made a bold race-winning move in the Duel, which displayed his willingness to take risks. YRB has the moxie you need to win the Great American Race. George Winkler Denny Hamlin. A lot of focus has been on the Fords and their success at restrictor-plate tracks, and Chevy has a new model, but it's a Toyota that ends up in Victory Lane. Hamlin has been fast in qualifying and practice and knows what it takes to win here.