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An ESPN executive says the network would be for more consistent start times of NASCAR Sprint Cup races, but says research does not support the notion that certain start times will increase viewership.

ESPN and ABC will broadcast the remaining 17 Cup races, beginning with Sunday's race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

TV ratings have declined compared to last year for nearly every race — Fox's ratings fell 11 percent this season to a record low. Among the many items debated for the decline has been start times.

Sixteen of the 36 Cup races this season are scheduled to start at 2 p.m. Last year, 18 races start at 2 p.m. The difference this year is that the Atlanta fall race moved to a night event and that the Talladega race moved to 1 p.m., giving it the earliest starting time for a Cup race this season.

"We'd be supportive of consistent start times," says Julie Sobieski, ESPN's vice president, programming and acquisitions.

"For us, consistency is important and will remain important. It's ultimately NASCAR's call when it comes to the schedule of their races and the tracks as well."

Many fans suggest that more start times earlier in the day would increase ratings.

Sobieski says that "research doesn't necessarily bear that out. For us, the 2 o'clock starts, to be honest, are doing well."

Seven of the 17 races ESPN and ABC will broadcast are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

SEEING THE FUTURE: Jeff Gordon admits he's wondered about rookie Joey Logano's progression but also says the future is bright for the 19-year old.

"I've seen him really struggle this year more than I thought he would struggle," Gordon said. "There's been moments &ellipses; where I've said don't know if he's got it.

"But then as the season's gone on and I remind myself of my rookie year, you know, I think he's actually going to go a long ways and do extremely well."

PIT STOPS: Kasey Kahne is scheduled to make his 200th career Cup start this weekend. &ellipses; Ron Hornaday takes a three-race win streak into Friday's Camping World Truck series race at O'Reilly Raceway Park near Indianapolis.

Contact Dustin Long at 373-7062 or dustin.long@news-record.com