atlanta (Early friday am update)

A few quick notes before on track action begins today:

• Today we have practice from 1135am-1255pm Eastern.  Then qualifying at 515pm Eastern.  Both will be shown live on FS1.
• Pay particular attention to the first 30-45 minutes of practice.  That is when most teams will probably work on their race set-up.  (After that, most will switch to qualifying trim.)  Watch and listen to determine whose cars are handling well and showing speed in that first part of practice.
  
• Atlanta is a very abrasive track with rapid tire wear.  Lap times will go up dramatically over longer runs.  Pay attention to any numbers or comments the Fox crew gives for 10, 15 or even 20 lap averages.  You will want to focus on the drivers who are sustaining their lap times the best over a longer run.
• The forecast is still very wet for Sunday, so the final race schedule is a bit up in the air.
• We'll have more after today's action is complete.