Yesh why do all of you fools doubt Garra. He's got the fricking sand badger, easily the second strongest thing we've seen so far in naruto. Not only does have have that kick ass demon but he knows how to use it quite well. Keep in mind he spend most of his early years learning Jutsu's from his father who was the prior kazekage.

Who knows naruto may have become stronger and can control his kyubi better but in the first part he really couldn't control it at will or use it's powers very effectivly while Garra could. Hell Garra not only uses the powers of his demon but he's found ways to improve them. Do none of you remember the beatdown he layed on Kimmimaro? That was just from a few months of practice. Imagine what he probably was able to do in 2 years time. Makes perfect sense to me. Although poor naruto. He helps out Garra only to find that the guy gets the position long before he even gets the oportunity to tryout for it.