In all sports, the tides of change roll in and out. The outstanding few weather the storm and find themselves remaining consistent for an extended period of time.

Unfortunately for others, each year is a new beginning that poses problems in charting a solid course toward successful shores.

NASCAR is no different. It is perhaps even more precarious than most other professional leagues.

This list begins, statistically, where each of the Top 25 finishers placed in 2011 and surmises whether they will be better, worse or stay the same in 2012.

In all sports, the tides of change roll in and out. The outstanding few weather the storm and find themselves remaining consistent for an extended period of time.

Unfortunately for others, each year is a new beginning that poses problems in charting a solid course toward successful shores.

NASCAR is no different. It is perhaps even more precarious than most other professional leagues.

This list begins, statistically, where each of the Top 25 finishers placed in 2011 and surmises whether they will be better, worse or stay the same in 2012.