All Jacked Up
Earnhardt Jr. vs. Busch: Round 2
Posted by: Jason Randall
Thursday, May 8, 2008 12:39 PM
I don't think a single Dale Earnhardt Jr. fan has gotten over last weekend's finish at Richmond. Kyle Busch is the latest driver fire up Junior's rabid fan base and he's going to get more boos than he's ever heard on Saturday during driver introductions at Darlington. And if Busch wins, don't be surprised to see about a million beer cans chucked his way during his burnout.After incidents like we saw at Richmond, drivers like to talk about how there is no more beef, but I will be interested to see what happens if the 88 finds its way onto the 18's back bumper. Earnhardt Jr. was so close to ending his 71-race drought, and for the carpet to be yanked out from under him, well, let's just say I don't think we've seen the last of this feud.
You had to feel for Junior during his post-race interview last weekend. He was struggling. It did however show his maturity, because the Earnhardt Jr. five years ago would have had much stronger words for the younger Busch.
So what's it gonna be? Will the more mature, professional Junior put last week behind him? Or will he send a message Busch's way if the opportunity presents itself? What if they're racing for the win again? Wow, that would be awesome!
As far as the other contenders for Saturday night's race at Darlington, I think it could be a banner day for the Roush cars. Greg Biffle, Matt Kenseth and Carl Edwards all have had success at "The Lady in Black," and I look for that to continue again.
We all know Edwards' team has it working on the bigger tracks, but the oddly shaped oval Saturday throws a new element at the 99.
Biffle has been quietly good this season and could break through for a win. Did you realize he's ninth in points right now? Didn't think so.
For Kenseth, this is a chance to get back on track after a run of some poor finishes.
On the Hendrick side, Jimmie Johnson is very strong at Darlington and probably will have something to say as well.
Regardless, another event under the lights at one of the most challenging tracks should be phenomenal ... especially if Busch gets a whole rearview mirror full of the 88 Chevrolet. Can't wait.
On a side note, I'll be a guest on Eric Loy's sports show on WDWS 1400-AM on Tuesday night at about 6:05 p.m. I'll post the phone number early next week. Let's talk racing. We'd love to hear from you.
Until next time, keep hittin' your marks!
Comments
As much as I didn't like Busch spinning Earnhardt Jr., what would Dale Sr. have done??? Spun him that's what. Just like Jr. said, he was going for the win..he could've backed off and there wouldn't have been a wreck, but both wanted the win...If the shoe was on the other foot, people would've loved it...kind of hypocritical, but oh well
Posted by weedner on May 9, 2008 at 10:17 AM
The winless streak talk is getting old, he is 3rd in points and really doesn't have to win all season. He could still win the cup without a win, I wish they would kill it already. This could lead to wrecks where he pushes too hard to satisfy the media, when the only thing that really matters is points racing.
Posted by aoccc on May 9, 2008 at 9:29 PM
yeah, i'm sure every driver is cool with coming in second or third or eighth every week. i mean, what's the point of winning a race?
oh, right, it's a race...the point is to win. otherwise, it wouldn't be called a race.
Posted by hehndogg on May 10, 2008 at 9:01 AM
