The NASCAR Sprint Cup series is returning to action this week after a one week vacation. Here are the picks from the VAVEL NASCAR writers on who they think will perform the best during this weekend's race.

Current Standings

This Weekend's Picks

Stevie Larson

Pick: Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Reason: "He hasn't won at Martinsville since October 2014, and also has not won yet this season. This weekend will be the perfect storm for him to get his first win of the season."

Stephen Frust

Pick: Denny Hamlin

Reason: "Denny Hamlin is a short track racer all the way back to his roots. Denny has an average finish of 8th and already has racked up 5 wins on the Virginia short track along with 11 top 5s. He'll have some strong competition from Jimmie Johnson who is already hot this year with two wins and sits atop the active driver win list at Martinsville, but Denny is thirsty for his second win of 2016 and will put his short track skills on display come Sunday and drive to the front."

Mark Smith

Pick: Kurt Busch

Reason: "The driver of the #41 Monster Energy Chevrolet will conquer the 'Paperclip' this weekend and earn his first win of the 2016 Sprint Cup Series season as long as he earns a good starting spot in qualifying on Friday night."

Brandon Farris

Pick: Jimmie Johnson

Reason: "History with Martinsville will make him a favorite to take home another grandfather clock."

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About the author
Stevie Larson
NASCAR Editor, Minnesota sports fan. Contact: [email protected]