Tag: rick hendrick

  • Rick Hendrick’s belief in Larson vindicated with emotional win at Las Vegas

    Rick Hendrick’s belief in Larson vindicated with emotional win at Las Vegas

    Kyle Larson’s NASCAR Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway was another step forward on the road to redemption.

    He competed in only four races last year after his use of a racial slur during an iRacing event led to an indefinite suspension by NASCAR. A week later he was fired by Chip Ganassi Racing.

    Larson was immediately contrite, telling the Associated Press, “I was just ignorant and immature. I didn’t understand the negativity and hurt that comes with that word.”

    He completed the NASCAR mandated sensitivity training as well as taking further steps to better understand the implications of what he said and how they related to racial injustice in society.

    In October of last year, he signed with Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR announced that Larson had been reinstated in January 2021.

    While some may have questioned Rick Hendrick’s decision to give Larson a second chance, Hendrick never doubted Larson’s potential. Fast forward to the fourth race of the season and Larson has already made it to victory lane. Hendrick was, however, surprised at how rapidly the team has come together.

    “I didn’t really expect for it to come this quick because I just thought it would take “more time to gel. But our cars are fast. He’s a champion really. I’m so lucky to have him. Cliff (Daniels, crew chief) is just a great young man. To win in the fourth race, especially when you don’t have any practice, you just show up and race, it’s really been awesome.

    “I think they’re going to have a lot of success together this year,” Hendrick reiterated. “If you look back at the road course he had a shot to win that. If you show up and you run well, that’s half the battle. Nobody doubts Kyle’s ability.”

    What made the victory at Las Vegas even more poignant is that Larson was driving the No. 5 Chevrolet with a paint scheme that was evocative of the car driven by Hendrick’s late son, Ricky.  

    “My wife and I were watching. Hendrick said. “It was emotional. It was joy. It was so many things. I love those colors. When we were going to be on the car, I mean, I wanted to run that paint scheme with that number. That meant a ton to me today and to my family just to honor our son. I love the paint scheme anyway. But Kyle made us proud today.”

    Hendrick went on to express his faith in Hendrick Motorsports, crediting Larson with bringing a new intensity to the organization.

    “I think the energy that he has brought to our company, along with the energy to see all the cars run as good as they’re running, that has got the whole organization on their toes. It just looks like at every race we’re in we’ve got cars in there that can win it. That’s what you want. You want an opportunity to win.

    “I just feel like the chemistry is so good right now,” Hendrick said. “I don’t know if I ever remember it being any better across the board with all four cars. Two cars sometimes, then one car winning them all. But now we’ve got a really good balance.

    “Everybody’s excited. I’m excited.”

    If Hendrick’s enthusiasm is any indication of what is to come, Hendrick Motorsports could very well be in contention for another championship title this November.

  • Hot 20 – Bristol is not over-hyped, but a lot is

    Hot 20 – Bristol is not over-hyped, but a lot is

    Sometimes the news can be a little over-hyped. For example, no matter what you might hear, Kyle Busch is going to claim the bonus for the most points garnered by the time they leave Indianapolis. Kevin Harvick would need to close the gap by 21 points in each of the remaining three events to change that, and that is not going to happen. It is a done deal.

    The purveyors of all things NASCAR who tell you there is going to be a change in the lineup for the Playoffs are dreaming. No one outside the current Top 16 is going to make the Chase for the Championship, unless someone outside that group wins at Bristol, Darlington, or Indianapolis. Those who have won on those tracks in the recent past are already among that Top 16.

    With one exception. There is a driver not among the already blessed who has won at two of those venues who will be trying to win his way in. However, do not bet on Kasey Kahne succeeding. He won at Bristol five years ago. He won at Darlington last year. However, there is a mighty big difference driving equipment supplied by Rick Hendrick and what Leavine Family Racing has in stock this season. Kahne finished fourth at Daytona last month, but outside the Top 15 everywhere else. Do not expect a Bristol or Indianapolis miracle.

    Sometimes a story gets clearer once you get the details. Actually, it always does. Take former driver Greg Biffle. When you heard he was secretly videotaping his wife in the bedroom and bathroom, you could have been forgiven for wondering what in hell was up with the Biff. However, he suspected his wife was cheating on him. It appears she was. Biffle was convicted for invading his wife’s privacy, but the jury awarded his now ex-wife $1. That is ONE dollar. Even the jury saw things much clearer once they got all the details.

    As for Saturday night, Bristol is going to be freaking awesome. A venue that usually delivers great racing, and this year we have the NBC broadcast crew that actually keeps you tuned in even when the track is in Chicago or Michigan. Hey, do not take my word for it. I could be over-hyping the event, but I am not. Watch for yourself. I think you will be glad you did.

    1. KYLE BUSCH – 6 WINS (986 Pts)
    Has a Top Five in 10 of the past 11 events. There is a reason he is up here.

    2. KEVIN HARVICK – 6 WINS (1 E.W. – 924 Pts)
    Keelan is a great kid, but we hear he still can not drive a golf cart worth a damn.

    3. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 4 WINS (842 Pts)
    Other than for Bowman, that pit penalty, and the gas issue, it was one hell of a day last Sunday.

    4. CLINT BOWYER – 2 WINS (732 Pts)
    Clint’s last Top Ten was at Chicago on July 1st.

    5. JOEY LOGANO – 1 WIN (723 Pts)
    Roger Penske has Logano, Keselowski, and Blaney in his stable. That could work.

    6. CHASE ELLIOTT – 1 WIN (647 Pts)
    A straight quartet of Top Tens, including his win at Watkins Glen. Peaking at the right time.

    7. ERIK JONES – 1 WIN (596 Pts)
    Well, Michigan sure sucked.

    8. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (451 Pts)
    Damn. There was a Dillon sighting at Michigan, I kid you not.

    9. KURT BUSCH – 750 POINTS
    Could he be replacing McMurray over at Ganassi?

    10. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 709 POINTS
    His promise to drive through blockers might come true this Saturday night.

    11. RYAN BLANEY – 687 POINTS
    Chase has a win. Erik has a win. The young gent is starting to feel left out.

    12. DENNY HAMLIN – 684 POINTS
    Works for his favorite NFL coach, and now he has a replacement for his long-lost cap.

    13. KYLE LARSON – 681 POINTS
    The lad likes to get down and dirty.

    14. ARIC ALMIROLA – 639 POINTS
    Before we set off at Bristol, Abby and Alex will be setting off back to school.

    15. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 572 POINTS
    Isn’t it time for the firm of Johnson and Knaus to show up?

    16. ALEX BOWMAN – 542 POINTS
    Spin Truex. Check. What else did you want me to do?

    17. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 480 POINTS
    Win? Hell, he has not even managed a Top Ten since May.

    18. PAUL MENARD – 472 POINTS
    Do not expect great things at Bristol. It just does not happen.

    19. DANIEL SUAREZ – 460 POINTS
    Daniel claims he is capable of winning races this season. Okay. Prove it.

    20. RYAN NEWMAN – 456 POINTS
    Just glad Kurt is not rumored to be replacing him again.

  • Hot 20 – Michigan is the focus of this weekend but, apparently, so is France

    Hot 20 – Michigan is the focus of this weekend but, apparently, so is France

    Bill France. Bill France, Jr. These men were NASCAR.

    Smokey Yunick. Maurice Petty. Glen Wood, Leonard Wood. Ray Evernham. These men were NASCAR.

    Lee Petty. Richard Petty. Fireball Roberts. Joe Weatherly, Junior Johnson. Bobby Allison. Dale Earnhardt. Cale Yarborough. Darrell Waltrip. Bill Elliott. These men were NASCAR.

    Ned Jarrett. Ken Squier. These men were NASCAR.

    Tony Stewart. Jeff Gordon. Mark Martin. Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Carl Edwards. These men were NASCAR.

    Rick Hendrick. Joe Gibbs. Roger Penske. Jack Roush. Richard Childress. These men are NASCAR.

    Jimmie Johnson. Kyle Busch, Kurt Busch. Kevin Harvick. Martin Truex, Jr. Denny Hamlin. Brad Keselowski. Kyle Larson. Chase Elliott. These men are NASCAR.

    These men, a few women, and so many others made the sport. Were the sport. Are the sport.

    Brian France is not NASCAR. There is a reason 97 percent of all family businesses do not survive as such into the fourth generation.

    At Michigan on Sunday, NBC’s stellar broadcast crew will once again deliver to our living rooms the people who are NASCAR. Those who matter. The reasons we watch.

    Especially our Hot 20. Only 16 spots are open to qualify for a championship run, but a win gets one in and there are only four opportunities left to do just that. Right now, that is the only driving news that matters when it comes to NASCAR.

    1. KYLE BUSCH – 6 WINS (934 Pts)
    Smokey Yunick would not have let a fueling malfunction stop one of his cars from winning.

    2. KEVIN HARVICK – 6 WINS (864 Pts)
    Such a terrible day it was at Watkins Glen. He only finished 10th. Only.

    3. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 4 WINS (813 Pts)
    Everyone was just thrilled Chase won last week…except for this one.

    4. CLINT BOWYER – 2 WINS (703 Pts)
    June was a good month to visit Michigan. Hoping August will be just as rewarding.

    5. JOEY LOGANO – 1 WIN (691 Pts)
    Nice day at the beach at Watkins Glen, though the only water was pouring from his radiator.

    6. CHASE ELLIOTT – 1 WIN (619 Pts)
    Five Michigan career starts, finishing 2nd, 2nd, 2nd, 8th, and 9th. The boy wants another, it seems.

    7. ERIK JONES – 1 WIN (572 Pts)
    No longer the best 22-year-old driver this season.

    8. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (412 Pts)
    A win and you are in. I like that rule, but…

    9. KURT BUSCH – 705 POINTS
    No charges were issued, yet Brian France once suspended him. Just thought I would mention it.

    10. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 670 POINTS
    Winning his first of the season in his home state would be sweet.

    11. KYLE LARSON – 660 POINTS
    Has won three of the last four at Michigan, a string only interrupted by Bowyer two months ago.

    12. DENNY HAMLIN – 650 POINTS
    New Redskins’ Super Bowl XXVI cap comes 26 years after the original flew out the bus window.

    13. RYAN BLANEY – 639 POINTS
    As long as he does not drive like Brian France, he will be in the mix after Indianapolis.

    14. ARIC ALMIROLA – 602 POINTS
    Unlike Canada and Saudi Arabia, Almirola and DiBenedetto have renewed diplomatic relations.

    15. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 563 POINTS
    I bet you thought Bowyer was the NASCAR guy with the road service ties.

    16. ALEX BOWMAN – 523 POINTS
    Unless he gives up 18 points per race between now and after Indianapolis, he is in, unless…

    17. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 461 POINTS
    …Ricky or anyone from him down to Matt DiBenedetto can win one of the next four.

    18. PAUL MENARD – 451 POINTS
    The Wood Brothers auto should be strong at Michigan, but it needs to be the strongest.

    19. DANIEL SUAREZ – 434 POINTS
    Some actually believe Suarez has a shot this weekend to win. Maybe a small wager is in order.

    20. RYAN NEWMAN – 431 POINTS
    Won at Michigan once in 2003 and once in 2004. He sure could use another one now.

  • Hot 20 – Truex is king, Junior is done, and the kids are moving to the big boy table

    Hot 20 – Truex is king, Junior is done, and the kids are moving to the big boy table

    The cream rose to the top, as the top four accumulated half of the wins between them this season. Four drivers, 18 wins, and now four shared championships.

    Next season NASCAR decides its 70th Cup champion, an honor claimed by just 32 men in that time. Martin Truex Jr., Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick, and Brad Keselowski will be joined by Jimmie Johnson and Kurt Busch as each will seek to add to their trophy cases. A bunch of talent will be bursting out of the gate at Daytona come February to make their own arguments. Rick Hendrick does not make up his roster based on age alone, boasting the elder statesman and the baby in 2018. The 41-year-old seven-time king Johnson will be joined by a new teammate, William Byron, who does not turn 20 until next week.

    Nothing says our final four will not be back. Truex had a dominant season, while Busch once again laid claim as being one of the very best in the business. Harvick and Keselowski have not grown any moss, and then there is Chase Elliott, who turns 22 at the end of the month. Another Hendrick driver who will be sporting his father Bill Elliott’s old number, seeking that first career win. Only a fool would bet against that happening.

    NASCAR has its issues, to be sure. They cannot figure how to get fans back to the tracks or even how to insist on television crews with the talent to keep us watching, no matter what. However, there is no shortage of storylines for next season. Along with those mentioned, a new generation has emerged. Kyle Larson and Ryan Blaney have arrived. Twenty-one-year-old Erik Jones is on the cusp. Next season, 24-year-old Bubba Wallace will drive the iconic Petty blue No. 43, featuring a familiar look for a native son of Alabama, but something rare in NASCAR.

    But all that is nearly three months away. In the meantime, we give thanks for the likes of Dale Earnhardt Jr., Matt Kenseth, and Danica Patrick, and wait to see what the future holds in store for them. We await to see what Kurt Busch will be doing next year. Above all else, we salute a very worthy 2017 champion who tops our Hot 20.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 5040 POINTS – 8 Wins
    For the driver, his fiancé, his team owner, and his entire team…this was truly well deserved.

    2. KYLE BUSCH – 5035 POINTS – 5 Wins
    One position, and possibly one caution, away from holding his own celebration.

    3. KEVIN HARVICK – 5033 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Handling issues and a debris-induced hole did not help his cause.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 5030 POINTS – 3 Wins
    Fears a lack of manufacture parity might mean his Fords will be fried next year.

    5. CHASE ELLIOTT – 2377 POINTS
    In 2018, the torch passes to the next generation and this is the standard bearer.

    6. DENNY HAMLIN – 2353 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Learning that the Elliott Bible states, “Do unto others AS they have done unto you.” Let us pray.

    7. MATT KENSETH – 2344 POINTS – 1 Win
    If this is how Matt goes out, he did it as we would have expected…in style.

    8. KYLE LARSON – 2320 POINTS – 4 Wins
    The next generation has arrived. After Elliott, Larson is definitely Exhibit “B.”

    9. RYAN BLANEY – 2305 POINTS – 1 Win
    Exhibit “C” is moving on to join Roger Penske next season.

    10. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 2260 POINTS – 3 Wins
    Already among NASCAR royalty, he will once again try to rate eight in 2018.

    11. AUSTIN DILLON – 2224 POINTS – 1 Win
    Just four top 10s and he sits 11th. Nine top 20’s in his last 10 races mean more than I thought.

    12. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 2224 POINTS
    Seventeen top 10s, and he sits tied with Dillon in the standings. Maybe it is the cowboy hat.

    13. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 2222 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Two wins do not a season make. Well, that statement has been proven to be wrong.

    14. KURT BUSCH – 2217 POINTS – 1 Win
    What is next?

    15. KASEY KAHNE – 2198 POINTS – 1 Win
    As Kurt rose Furniture Row to the next rung, can Kasey do the same for Leavine Family Racing?

    16. RYAN NEWMAN – 2196 POINTS – 1 Win
    Double figures in top 10s in all but two of his seasons, including 13 more this year. Really.

    17. JOEY LOGANO – 930 POINTS – 1 Win
    Even with a win that meant something, he probably would have been done by Kansas.

    18. CLINT BOWYER – 871 POINTS
    Things started well enough, then Michigan, Bristol, Darlington, and Richmond happened.

    19. ERIK JONES – 863 POINTS
    At 21, I guess that would make Jones Exhibit “D”.

    20. DANIEL SUAREZ – 777 POINTS
    Loved Michigan and Darlington even less than Bowyer did.

    21. DALE EARNHARDT JR. – 668 POINTS
    Thanks for the memories. It was one hell of a ride.

     

  • Hot 20 – They are getting suspended, hired, fired, and fired up heading to New Hampshire

    Hot 20 – They are getting suspended, hired, fired, and fired up heading to New Hampshire

    Everyone is super excited about going to Loudon, New Hampshire for the big event on Sunday. Okay, Alan Gustafson is not. Is not going, that is. Chase Elliott was second in Chicago, leaving him sixth in points. That was then. Now, he is eighth in points. If your car fails post-race inspection, sometimes they take away 15 points, along with your crew chief for a week. Sometimes NASCAR catches you. Sometimes a fan sees on TV tape being removed where tape should not be. Busted. Elliott remains 18 points above the cut-off for the next round, so he is good as long as he remains good in New Hampshire. However, we do thank Alan for his efforts and wish him well…well, until he returns in time for Dover.

    Kasey Kahne is good to go for 2018. No doubt Rick Hendrick thanks him for his efforts and wished him well in his future endeavors. Those efforts will take place with the Leavine Family Racing team. That means that after about a hundred events, Michael McDowell departs the No. 95 to be thanked for his efforts and wished well in his future endeavors.

    Sometimes when a person gets fired, they say nice things. Sometimes they might even give you a two-year Day-Timer as a parting gift. In my case, I was amused at their choice, being unemployed and all, but as my old one was going to be defunct within three months, I could always use that new one come January. Sadly, come January, my new two-year Day-Timer also required replacement. Something tells me they got my gift from a bargain bin, for things that are almost expired. I never did use the damn thing. Sometimes, they say things like how a person is so versatile and talented, and still, they fire her ass, while thanking her for all she has done and wishing her the best in her future endeavors.

    While Tony Stewart and Danica Patrick prepare for their respective futures, XFINITY is looking at their own. We are all excited that they unveiled the branding for 2018 of the NASCAR XFINITY Series this week. Considering what the crowds look like and how few races the actual championship contenders win against the Cup guys dropping down to grab the trophies, I thank them for all they have done and wish the series well in all their future endeavors.

    In the meantime, Martin Truex Jr. was the best throughout the season and the best in Chicago. Did you notice that the Top 15 last week were equally represented by the manufacturers? Five Toyotas, five Fords, and five Chevy’s. Now, that is parity. I wish them all well this weekend in their endeavors.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 1 SEGMENT WIN – 2102 Pts – 5 Wins
    The favorite to win the title. After Chicago, does anyone have any questions?

    2. KYLE LARSON – 2075 POINTS – 4 Wins
    Best damn Chevy at Chicago that was not penalized after the race.

    3. KEVIN HARVICK – 2067 POINTS – 1 Win
    Harvick keeps his sponsors by investing in them and believing in them. They return the favor.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2061 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Thinks Toyota has an unfair advantage. He is right. They call him Mr. Truex.

    5. KYLE BUSCH – 2061 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Just wants Brad to know that he also drives a Toyota.

    6. DENNY HAMLIN – 2058 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Him, too.

    7. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 2056 POINTS – 3 Wins
    When morale takes a hit when a hurricane hits your town, Jimmie is on call.

    8. CHASE ELLIOTT – 2044 POINTS
    An “aerodynamic modification” found in post-race inspection costs 15 points and his crew chief.

    9. MATT KENSETH – 2039 POINTS
    Audition for 2018 had a good start, placing ninth last week.

    10. RYAN BLANEY – 2034 POINTS – 1 Win
    When I originally read he was visiting the Magic Mile Club, I thought it too much information.

    11. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 2031 POINTS
    Took his car out for a spin in Chicago last week, and still finished in the Top Ten.

    12. AUSTIN DILLON – 2026 POINTS – 1 Win
    Sure, the track is like driving on the highway, but pit lane is more like a school zone.

    13. KURT BUSCH – 2026 POINTS – 1 Win
    Not all vibrations are good, and speeding on pit road always ends badly.

    14. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 2022 POINTS – 2 Wins
    Touch fence. Check. Violate commitment line. Check. Speed down pit lane. Check.

    15. KASEY KAHNE – 2021 POINTS – 1 Win
    Kurt said no, but Kasey thought it divine to be with Leavine Family Racing in 2018.

    16. RYAN NEWMAN – 2019 POINTS – 1 Win
    23rd and pretty much unseen throughout the day. Made the Chase, but isn’t making the grade.

    17. JOEY LOGANO – 692 POINTS – 1 Win
    16 guys still have a shot at the championship. Joey is not among them.

    18. CLINT BOWYER – 688 POINTS
    16 guys still have a shot…well…you know the rest.

    19. ERIK JONES – 658 POINTS
    String of six straight Top Tens hits the ditch big time in Chicago.

    20. DANIEL SUAREZ – 595 POINTS
    96 points ahead of Trevor Bayne. 116 points up on Junior.

  • Hot 20 – As our attention shifts to the Windy City, the winds of change keep on a blowin’

    Hot 20 – As our attention shifts to the Windy City, the winds of change keep on a blowin’

    Change can be a good thing. Sometimes it is, but other times it is a simple reminder that we are getting older and, like disco, what was popular yesterday might not be tomorrow.

    This week, official confirmation arrived that Danica Patrick was leaving the Stewart-Haas No. 10. Coming in with the 2008 Indy Japan 300 to her credit, her model looks, that firecracker personality, she did have her detractors. Was she good enough, was she strong enough? Still, she had great support from fans and sponsors alike.

    Patrick already had set some standards for her gender. She was the first woman to lead the Indianapolis 500 and win an IndyCar race. She was that circuit’s Most Popular Driver for six year’s running. Then she moved over to the stock cars, moving full-time to Cup in 2013 where she immediately won a Daytona 500 pole, led the race, and finished 8th. It was her 11th career Cup start. Sadly, in the 169 races since there have been no more poles and just six more Top Tens. The results and then the sponsorship were no longer there to extend her contract with Stewart-Haas past this season.

    I will still wear my No. 88 cap, don my battered No. 8 T-shirt, even though Dale Earnhardt Jr. will not be in contention for a title as he retires after this campaign. Be it this year, or next, someone else will be their Most Popular Diver other than the guy who has claimed the honor since 2003. From the time of his first Top Ten at Richmond 18 years ago, the loss of his father, his wins at Daytona and Talladega since, whether he wanted to be or not, Junior became the face of NASCAR. He was absolute magic through 2004, then gave us a resurgence in 2014 and 2015 when he chalked up his final seven victories. With a career total of 26 and his army of fans, he should eventually find his way to the Hall of Fame.

    Unlike Junior, Matt Kenseth won a championship, earned a spot in the Chase, but did not get the choice of whether to stay or not. With William Byron waiting in the wings, that decision was made for him. Kasey Kahne did not win a title, yet he is another man in the Chase with no ride set for 2018. Erik Jones comes into Rick Hendrick’s stable next year to move into the No. 4 as Chase Elliott gets the No. 9 and Kahne’s No. 5 gets moth balled.

    Kurt Busch has a title, a place in the Chase, but does he have a ride for next season? At the end of his contract with Stewart-Haas, he is still officially negotiating a new deal. If Monster Energy does not return as his sponsor, my guess is that he won’t return to that car. Having a sponsor trumps talent. Just ask Paul Menard.

    Then there is Richard Petty’s iconic No. 43. Smithfield Foods has moved its sponsorship to Stewart-Haas and the odds seem to be in favor of them taking Aric Almirola with them to sit behind the wheel. That leaves Petty Motorsports without a sponsor, a driver, and questions are arising as to whether it might be the end of an era.

    Carl Edwards might be back. He might not. Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart closed the book on their careers last year. That is a lot of top tier names gone or in limbo, representing a very sizeable number of fans who tuned in every week to cheer them on.

    In the immortal words of disco, their supporters are left pleading “Don’t Leave Me This Way” while NASCAR proclaims “I Will Survive” and the rest of us are left wondering “Where Do We Go From Here.”

    The answer to the last is…Chicago.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 2053 PTS (4 Wins)
    Should Cope, Larson, and Hamlin decide you don’t get another win, you don’t.

    2. KYLE LARSON – 2033 PTS (4 Wins)
    Derrike Cope was a two-time winner in 1990 and helped make Larson a four-time winner this year.

    3. KYLE BUSCH – 2029 PTS (2 Wins)
    Visited Furniture Row in Denver. No doubt, Kyle is working for the Russians.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2019 PTS (2 Wins)
    XFINITY series is not dead yet, as I hear Brad beat Kyle at Richmond. How bad have you got it?

    5. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 2017 PTS (3 Wins)
    Time to carry the freight in his bid for number eight.

    6. KEVIN HARVICK – 2015 PTS (1 Win)
    “Whether it’s Dale Jr., Danica, myself…people come and go.” I am afraid Harvick is right.

    7. DENNY HAMLIN – 2013 PTS (2 Wins)
    Now, that is how you perform a P.I.T. maneuver.

    8. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 2010 PTS (2 Wins)
    Picked the right time to have a breakout season.

    9. RYAN BLANEY – 2008 PTS (1 Win)
    Ten more races with the Wood Brothers before moving on over to the Penske people.

    10. CHASE ELLIOTT – 2006 PTS
    Maybe now is the time to consider getting that first career victory.

    11. RYAN NEWMAN – 2005 PTS (1 Win)
    Not exactly a stellar season but points wise he deserves to be in the running.

    12. KURT BUSCH – 2005 PTS (1 Win)
    After the Daytona 500 he has been on cruise control, then they told him he could lose his lease.

    13. KASEY KAHNE – 2005 PTS (1 Win)
    Like Kurt and Matt, it is more than just the Chase…but more like an audition for next season.

    14. AUSTIN DILLON – 2005 PTS (1 Win)
    His team owner has told him that he was loved and has a job for next year.

    15. MATT KENSETH – 2005 PTS
    Where is an ambulance when you do not need one?

    16. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 2003 PTS
    No wins, but he has run a hell of a lot better than his place in these standings would indicate.

    17. CLINT BOWYER – 664 PTS
    Two pit penalties and some repair work in a race he had to win to be in.

    18. ERIK JONES – 654 PTS
    With six straight Top Tens, Jones has just given us notice for 2018.

    19. JOEY LOGANO – 652 PTS (1 Win)
    Earned more points than four who made the Chase, but all he got from his win was a trophy.

    20. DANIEL SUAREZ – 568 PTS
    Behind him, you will find such names as Bayne, Earnhardt, Menard, Allmendinger, and Patrick.

     

  • Hot 20 – A Southern night with the lady in black at Darlington

    Hot 20 – A Southern night with the lady in black at Darlington

    With the Southern 500 coming our way from Darlington this weekend, it seems like a good time to talk about tradition. The first one in the books was back in 1950, making it the oldest of the sport’s iconic events. Most of the time, it goes to someone who is in or will be in, the Hall of Fame. That number will only grow once Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson get in, along with a few other contenders I can think of.

    Bill Elliott won it three times. Gordon has six. Next year, the current driver of the No. 24 moves over to take over the No. 9 once driven by his daddy. Chase Elliott has the name and soon will have the number. William Byron takes over the former Gordonmobile.

    Ray Evernham never drove the race, but he was the man on the stand for four of Gordon’s victories. The soon to be Hall of Famer joins fellow inductees Ron Hornaday Jr., Ken Squier and Robert Yates as the event’s Grand Marshals.

    We hear that the No. 5 is about to go into mothballs, considering the No. 24, No. 48, and the No. 88 will soon be joined by the No. 9 in the stable of cars owned by Rick Hendrick. While Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s daddy won the race three times, this is the son’s last shot at claiming his first. An Earnhardt has appeared in Cup action every season since 1975. We might even see a cameo by the legacy of the legend next season, wife permitting. However, even if that was not the case, we could still have nephew Jeffery Earnhardt in the running.

    By the way, the Earnhardt NASCAR legacy at its highest division actually started on November 11, 1956 when Ralph Earnhardt finished second to Speedy Thompson in his Grand National debut at Hickory Speedway. Dale’s dad ran 51 races at the sport’s highest level. In fact, he finished ninth in the 1961 Southern 500.

    Tradition. Thanks to NASCAR’s capitulation to selling out its naming rights to corporate sponsors, we have few iconic stand alone events left. Talladega and Bristol are iconic tracks, but neither has a traditional branded event. If you are selective as to what races you win, there is the winter race in Daytona, the May contest in Charlotte, the summer run at Indianapolis, and Labor Day at Darlington.

    Win this Sunday’s Southern 500, and you will be remembered. Win your first of the season, and you will be rewarded with a place in the Chase.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 4 WINS (951 Pts)
    Tamed the track to tough to tame a year ago, but will she be a lady this year?

    2. KYLE LARSON – 3 WINS (845 Pts)
    Coming off a win and another Top Ten in his last two, I think the lad is doing alright.

    3. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 3 WINS (628 Pts)
    This week saw Genevieve’s first day of Grade One. That is a big deal.

    4. KYLE BUSCH – 2 WINS (850 Pts)
    We need some love ‘em or hate ‘em guys out there. He sure in hell is not colorless.

    5. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2 WINS (728 Pts)
    Then, there are some you just hate. I am hoping Momma Kay might disagree.

    6. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 2 WINS (528 Pts)
    Life is not always a day at the beach…but sometimes it is.

    7. KEVIN HARVICK – 1 WIN (824 Pts)
    His idea of a wild card race to determine the last Chase spot is a good one. We call it Richmond.

    8. DENNY HAMLIN – 1 WIN (753 Pts)
    Intentionally slow leaving pit road and you risk being sent to the back. Problem solved.

    9. RYAN BLANEY – 1 WIN (623 Pts)
    One of next season’s sponsors will be Menards. Take that, Paul!

    10. KURT BUSCH – 1 WIN (586 Pts)
    After a Daytona 500 and a Brickyard 400, another jewel would appear to be in order.

    11. RYAN NEWMAN – 1 WIN (574 Pts)
    Newman and Dillon will sport autos that will remind us of a certain Wrangler of the 1980s.

    12. KASEY KAHNE – 1 WIN (451 Pts)
    Sometimes when Hendrick makes an announcement, it is good news. Sometimes, it is not.

    13. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (437 Pts)
    When it comes to throwbacks, I still love the black Goodwrench…no offense Wrangler.

    14. CHASE ELLIOTT – 711 POINTS
    Nothing can be finer than driving the number niner.

    15. MATT KENSETH – 703 POINTS
    Two ex-champs, one quality ride left. Does either get the chair when the music stops?

    16. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 700 POINTS
    Seven wins at Charlotte, Daytona, Indianapolis, and Talladega. Why not one at Darlington?

    17. CLINT BOWYER – 642 POINTS
    Would he wreck a rival to make the Chase? Maybe, if he was running second.

    18. JOEY LOGANO – 583 POINTS (1 Win)
    Thought he had a plan to get into the Chase, but the President pardoned Sheriff Joe instead.

    19. ERIK JONES – 574 POINTS
    Pocono (eighth), Watkins Glen (10th), Michigan (third), Bristol (second). His stock is rising.

    20. DANIEL SUAREZ – 537 POINTS
    Whatever happens to the guy who fails to tighten a lug nut that costs his crew chief $10,000?

    The rest of the contenders

    21. TREVOR BAYNE – 470 POINTS
    22. DALE EARNHARDT JR. – 416 POINTS
    23. PAUL MENARD – 408 POINTS
    24. TY DILLON – 395 POINTS
    25. CHRIS BUESCHER – 387 POINTS
    26. A.J. ALLMENDINGER – 381 POINTS
    27. MICHAEL MCDOWELL – 378 POINTS
    28. DANICA PATRICK – 352 POINTS
    29. DAVID RAGAN – 303 POINTS
    30. ARIC ALMIROLA – 268 POINTS
    31. MATT DIBENEDETTO – 264 POINTS
    32. COLE WHITT – 241 POINTS
    33. LANDON CASSILL – 241 POINTS

     

     

  • Hot 20 – Barring the unexpected, the Pure Michigan 400 could be just another race

    Hot 20 – Barring the unexpected, the Pure Michigan 400 could be just another race

    Now we know why they call it Silly Season. 16 drivers will make the Chase, and we already know that three who have done well enough thus far this season may not have done well enough to save their rides for next.

    Kurt Busch won the Daytona 500, but Stewart-Haas has not yet picked up his option for next season. Even he does not know if they will or won’t. Kasey Kahne claimed Indianapolis, but Rick Hendrick will be replacing him with young William Byron next year. Matt Kenseth holds down the final place for the moment, but Joe Gibbs is bringing Erik Jones back to the mother ship to take that ride.

    Usually we are interested in the winners. This week, other than for Joey Logano, past winners mean nothing. A new winner, or Logano, could really have an impact on who makes it and who might not. Wins have all but locked up 13 positions. Chase Elliott, Jamie McMurray, and Kenseth hold down the next three, separated by just 11 points. Three positions, three drivers. Good for them, unless someone behind them in the standings wins and turns this into a game of musical chairs, with one of those chairs removed.

    Anyone within the top 33 in the rankings still has a mathematical shot. Even Aric Almirola, who missed seven races due to injury but remains within the Top 30 and thus eligible for the free pass a non-encumbered win would give him. Matt DiBenedetto, Cole Whitt, and Landon Cassill are close enough that an unlikely win could spring them into eligibility.

    Michigan might not be the most exciting venue to watch a race, but the result could be very interesting.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX, JR – 4 WINS (881 Pts)
    Truex and girlfriend Sherry Pollex have given us the season’s most compelling story.

    2. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 3 WINS (574 Pts)
    The King, the Intimidator, and Jimmie…all seven time champions.

    3. KYLE LARSON – 2 WINS (759 Pts)
    After back-to-back runner up finishes, has been outside the Top 20 in his last three attempts.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2 WINS (681 Pts)
    Left a nice note to Truex for the win. Not sure if he left a nice note to Rowdy after the bus stop.

    5. RICKY STENHOUSE, JR. – 2 WINS (486 Pts)
    Nobody is talking about his sponsorship disappearing and, this season, that is saying something.

    6. KYLE BUSCH – 1 WIN (765 Pts)
    M&M’s are good. Any sponsor sticking around is very, very good.

    7. KEVIN HARVICK – 1 WIN (746 Pts)
    Figures some of NASCAR’s problems stem from its most popular not being its most successful.

    8. DENNY HAMLIN – 1 WIN (687 Pts)
    As of mid-Wednesday afternoon, we were still waiting.

    9. RYAN BLANEY – 1 WIN (565 Pts)
    Moving from Wood Brothers to Penske, and the world is his oyster.

    10. KURT BUSCH – 1 WIN (528 Pts)
    Not everyone has such a smooth transition going from this year to next.

    11. RYAN NEWMAN – 1 WIN (503 Pts)
    Ryan should know what that is like.

    12. KASEY KAHNE – 1 WIN (437 Pts)
    Despite Indianapolis, his future in the Cup series could depend on what he does to November.

    13. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (406 Pts)
    Meanwhile, some others have job security.

    14. CHASE ELLIOTT – 648 POINTS
    With the exception of a seven-time champion, Hendrick turns it all over to the kids in 2018.

    15. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 643 POINTS
    Has finished in the Top Twenty is all but three. In this race, Jamie has become the turtle.

    16. MATT KENSETH – 637 POINTS
    If he gets the results, others do not get the wins, all he would need is a damn ride for next season.

    17. CLINT BOWYER – 609 POINTS
    Clint is not wishing Chase, Jamie, or Matt any ill fortune…but if it happens…

    18. JOEY LOGANO – 542 POINTS (1 Win)
    You could say that encumbered win is something of an encumberment.

    19. DANIEL SUAREZ – 508 POINTS
    Third last week means nothing, but could it be a harbinger of what is to come?

    20. ERIK JONES – 477 POINTS
    Crew Chief Chris Gale gets two race vacation, but $50,000 fine might keep him close to home.

    Then we have the Not So Hot, all who can be in with a win…

    21. TREVOR BAYNE – 408 POINTS
    22. PAUL MENARD – 383 POINTS
    23. DALE EARNHARDT, JR. – 379 POINTS
    24. TY DILLON – 378 POINTS
    25. MICHAEL MCDOWELL – 351 POINTS
    26. A.J. ALLMENDINGER – 349 POINTS
    27. CHRIS BUESCHER – 346 POINTS
    28. DANICA PATRICK – 325 POINTS
    29. DAVID RAGAN – 276 POINTS
    30. ARIC ALMIROLA – 242 POINTS
    31. MATT DIBENEDETTO – 242 POINTS
    32. COLE WHITT – 229 POINTS
    33. LANDON CASSILL – 227 POINTS

     

  • Hot 20 – Watkins Glen is another chance to win, but most are just as desperate to find money

    Hot 20 – Watkins Glen is another chance to win, but most are just as desperate to find money

    Money, it makes the world go round. So I’m told, anyway. While you and I might remain in perpetual financial darkness, the stock markets would seem to indicate that those on top of the heap are reeling it in. That would include, you would think, those who disperse those big sponsorship dollars that are the life blood of NASCAR. Not so, it appears. Either that, or what they are planning to spend their windfall on has nothing to do with motor car racing.

    Target is leaving Chip Ganassi after a 16-year relationship, despite the success of Kyle Larson. That leaves only Lowe’s (Jimmie Johnson) and FedEx (Denny Hamlin) as full-time sponsors on the Cup circuit. Roger Penske, Rick Hendrick, Richard Petty, Richard Childress, and the duo of Stewart-Haas are all said to be hunting down those elusive dollars for next season. To make it worse, Target is redirecting its resources from racing to soccer. Soccer!

    Among the less established outfits, some hire a driver who comes with a team that promises to also bring in the dollars. Paul Menard is the best known example, as his family’s business made it easy for the Wood Brothers to welcome him in as their replacement for Ryan Blaney. The move leaves Childress looking for cash to field a car for his grandson, Ty Dillon, with that family operation.

    Some drivers do not come with a fortune. Gray Gaulding had a deal with B.K. Racing where his family’s marketing firm dug up the sponsorship bucks, allowing him to drive and everyone to make money. The story has it that when those dollars dried up, the 19-year old driver was out. If names like Danica Patrick, Kurt Busch, and Larson can not lock in the funding easily, just imagine how tough it must be for under-performing teams with unestablished wheel-men.

    How anyone makes money in the other two national series is beyond me. The “crowd” for the Xfinity event at Indianapolis, for example, was tragic. Hell, there are reports that claim only 35,000 turned out for the Cup event, in a facility that seats ten times that number. The lack of crowds just about everywhere remains a concern. Not every race can be a spectacle, we know, but you need more than a bunch of cars spread out going round and round in the same position lap after lap. Most fans that came with the fad that NASCAR was were not racing fans, just folks looking for an adrenaline rush. For a time, they got it. Today, they do not, or so it would seem. At least the stage concept has provided us with some different pit strategies and re-starts to try and shake up the field a bit.

    Let us be honest. Some tracks are duds, for the most part. We could argue that last week’s venue, Pocono, could be among them if excitement is what you are in it for. In fact, nearly half of the Cup schedule is placed in spots that yield less than “edge of your seat” outcomes. I do not think Watkins Glen is among them. I think you might enjoy what is coming up this Sunday.

    If you can find any, you might even put some money down on that. If nothing else, you will get better odds than say you would get on seeing Kurt Busch, Matt Kenseth, and Kasey Kahne all having full-time rides next season. Follow the money…if you can find it.

     

    1. MARTIN TRUEX, JR. – 3 WINS (823 Pts)
    The Furniture Row driver is simply the best thus far this season. Period.

    2. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 3 WINS (566 Pts)
    When Jimmie and Chad retire, Lowe’s should have a place on their Hall of Fame plaques.

    3. KYLE LARSON – 2 WINS (738 Pts)
    If there is any sponsor out there looking to target a premium driver, this would be one of them.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2 WINS (649 Pts)
    The Cup series is sick, the other two series are dying. Does everybody realize this?

    5. RICKY STENHOUSE, JR. – 2 WINS (468 Pts)
    Has just four more points than Daniel, but two more wins than Mr. Suarez.

    6. KEVIN HARVICK – 1 WIN (726 Pts)
    Limiting veterans in Xfinity limits Harvick’s sponsorship opportunities. He is not happy.

    7. KYLE BUSCH – 1 WIN (723 Pts)
    Could Kyle tell me how any games he thinks Mike Trout should play in Salt Lake and Mobile?

    8. DENNY HAMLIN – 1 WIN (649 Pts)
    Will be ready to race on Sunday, unless Jordan is ready to deliver their second child that day.

    9. RYAN BLANEY – 1 WIN (529 Pts)
    It should not be long before the Blaney-Bubba Show arrives full-time in Cup.

    10. KURT BUSCH – 1 WIN (494 Pts)
    On the verge of becoming a free agent? Wow!

    11. RYAN NEWMAN – 1 WIN (491 Pts)
    Could we see a return of Newman to Stewart-Haas? Hahahaha. I just made myself laugh.

    12. KASEY KAHNE – 1 WIN (414 Pts)
    Wins a race, like Kurt, and has no assurance he will keep his job. What does that tell you?

    13. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (395 Pts)
    Brother Ty is ready to take his place in the family business…if they can find the money.

    14. CHASE ELLIOTT – 616 POINTS
    Rule of thumb over the next five races would be to finish on the lead lap. Easier said than done.

    15. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 615 POINTS
    Only wins on the marquee tracks. He might want to re-think that.

    16. MATT KENSETH – 594 POINTS
    Could he make the Chase and still be looking for a job next season? Just ask Kasey and Kurt.

    17. CLINT BOWYER – 577 POINTS
    Could move closer to Kenseth on Sunday, but if A.J. Allmendinger wins then it is all for naught.

    18. JOEY LOGANO – 525 POINTS (1 Win)
    The Glen, Michigan, Bristol, Darlington, or Richmond. Joey has to win one of them.

    19. DANIEL SUAREZ – 464 PONTS
    Unless there is an appeal, Jones’ 25 point penalty at Pocono moves Suarez to right here.

    19. ERIK JONES – 444 POINTS
    With Jones joining Gibbs next season, could that leave open a return of Kurt to Colorado?

  • Hot 20 – To Xfinity and Beyond, or the day Justin Allgaier thought he was Buzz Lightyear

    Hot 20 – To Xfinity and Beyond, or the day Justin Allgaier thought he was Buzz Lightyear

    Okay, the biggest story from Indianapolis was not Kasey Kahne’s win. It was not the fact he has received no assurances that he will keep his spot with Rick Hendrick’s stable next season. The one thing we might be assured of is that whoever sits in the No. 5 next year, it sure in hell won’t be Justin Allgaier.

    Allgaier will be in the XFINITY version for the Chase this fall, but his reputation took a hit this past weekend. First, he comes into the pits riding the line between the lane and his pit stall. In doing so, Allgaier was out of position and wound up sending his jackman flying and a tire changer skipping out of danger. That was just the first act of this cartoon.

    Later, he came in and once again was riding that line between being in his stall and out. They started their work, but the crew had to stop and push Allgaier’s car back to be legal. Then, before they even removed his front right, the driver saw the field coming around to lap him, so he guns it and out he goes. No warning. No lug nuts. Thankfully crew members were not left with no fingers.

    No air hose, either. As Allgaier left with the air gun under the car, the hose snapped and came whipping back like a snake with a severe disorder. Then it took some time for the radio calls to him to stop went heeded. By then, the tire was pretty much off, though not completely so at least a penalty was avoided. Good news for the crew, who would have faced fines and suspension, Sadly, by this time the fender was shattered. After some repairs, he was back out but 14 laps down. Bravery was a pit crew still willing to put themselves in harm’s way.

    Allgaier, his tire changer, his tire carrier, and his crew chief will all be back on Saturday in Iowa. Our hopes and prayers are with them all. Meanwhile, the Cup folks are in Pocono. It is getting to the point where points matter little. Winning one that counts does. Anyone winless in the Top 30 still has a chance to break some hearts on Sunday, while warming their own.

    1. MARTIN TRUEX JR. – 3 WINS (780 Pts)
    Rowdy was the guy to beat last week and beat him into the fence he did.

    2. JIMMIE JOHNSON – 3 WINS (564 Pts)
    Did you ever hear about The Little Engine That Could? Jimmie’s could not.

    3. KYLE LARSON – 2 WINS (732 Pts)
    Today, I have one son in Alta, Norway, one at Niagra Falls, while Kyle was in Ohsweken.

    4. BRAD KESELOWSKI – 2 WINS (601 Pts)
    He remains Roger’s boy for years to come.

    5. RICKY STENHOUSE JR. – 2 WINS (443 Pts)
    Still has the most well known girlfriend in NASCAR, but that is not the center of conversation.

    6. KEVIN HARVICK – 1 WIN (683 Pts)
    Drop a Jimmy John’s sandwich 153 feet off the spotter’s stand, and you get replaced.

    7. DENNY HAMLIN – 1 WIN (612 Pts)
    Once a week not enough to keep his competitive fires burning? Jamie should extend an invite.

    8. RYAN BLANEY – 1 WIN (516 Pts)
    Leaving Wood Brothers for Penske, with Paul Menard filling this seat next season.

    9. KURT BUSCH – 1 WIN (463 Pts)
    If Monster returns, so will Kurt. If not, it could come down to either him or Danica at SHR.

    10. RYAN NEWMAN – 1 WIN (462 Pts)
    Newman remembers something similar happening a few years ago with that outfit.

    11. KASEY KAHNE – 1 WIN (383 Pts)
    Got his win, got his place in the Chase, but does his ride go to William Byron in 2018?

    12. AUSTIN DILLON – 1 WIN (379 Pts)
    Blood-lines and a win gives him job security with a three-team outfit shrinking down to two.

    13. KYLE BUSCH – 673 POINTS
    Reasons he has failed to win this season…#20 That damn Truex wrecked me.

    14. JAMIE MCMURRAY – 599 POINTS
    An athlete fights for a place in the Chase; a car driver fights for one in a McDonald’s drive-thru.

    15. CHASE ELLIOTT – 588 POINTS
    Feeling pretty comfortable…unless Matt, Clint, Joey, Erik, Daniel, or Junior win this summer.

    16. MATT KENSETH – 566 POINTS
    Time to worry.

    17. CLINT BOWYER – 533 POINTS
    Time to win.

    18. JOEY LOGANO – 515 POINTS (1 Win)
    Joey has a win and sits 13th in points. Sometimes that means nothing.

    19. ERIK JONES – 440 POINTS
    In the game of musical seats, he is bound for Gibbs which opens up one quality ride with FRR.

    20. DANIEL SUAREZ – 434 POINTS
    Probably more at home in Dorne than in Winterfell, but could soon be found beyond the Wall.