5 Things we've learned thus far in the NASCAR Season
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is a happy man
Even though his early season performance has not been anything to write home about, Junior has loved every moment of this early season. He seems to have a bit of a jump to his step and appears ready to conquer the world.
From his crash finish of 37th at Daytona back in February, which he followed up with finishes of 30th and 16th place. Last week at Phoenix International Raceway, Earnhardt seemed to have the speed to race up front, only to see his brakes begin to fail. He finished in 14th place.
Despite the trials and tribulations on the track you still see a very upbeat and happy Junior in the garage. Having your career on the brink might have a lot to do with that. Also, his recent marriage to Amy may have put Dale Jr.’s life’s priorities in their proper place.
Hendrick Motorsports team off to a slow start
It looks like a repeat of the early season struggles by Hendrick Motorsports. The defending Cup Champion, Jimmie Johnson, has yet to find the speed in the #48 car that race fans have been accustomed to seeing.
Although Johnson had a decent day last weekend at Phoenix, finishing 9th, his season opening finish of 34th at Daytona and 19th at Atlanta was very un-Johnson like. Dale Jr., and Kasey Kahne have shared the early season slump of the Hendrick garage. Chase Elliott is the lone car in this garage that has shown speed on a week to week bases.
Chip Ganassi Racing has found the sports next star
Kyle Larson’s performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. Larson, week in and week out has been one of the fastest cars on the track. His 3 second place finishes has catapulted him into the Monster Series Cup Championship point lead.
Although still searching for his first victory in 2017, Larson has been the class of the field. It’s only a matter of time until Larson finds victory lane. He is now poised to become the sports next superstar.
No one races harder than the Penske Boys
Take your pick. Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano have gained the reputation of tough racers. Logano has already had a pit road physical altercation with rival Kyle Busch. I’m betting we’ll see more before the season is over.
Keselowski and Logano race hard every week. There is seldom any easy pass involving these two drivers especially late in a race. With fast race cars and talented drivers behind the wheel, Logano and Keselowski are contenders for the 2017 Championship.
Ryan Newman is one tough SOB
Newman, along with Kevin Harvick have long had the reputation of being one of NASCAR’s toughest competitors. We have often heard competitors talk about how difficult it is to pass Newman. He fights and claws for every position, no matter where in the field he may be racing.
Newman is also physically tough. After the race in the 100+ degree heat in the Arizona desert on Sunday, he exited his car and told Fox Sports that he “was spent”. The look on his face looked every bit the part of “being spent.” His toughness and endurance in the heat had a ton to do with his victory.
Thanks for reading. Listen to WTBQ radio on Monday and Friday mornings at 8:45 as I join Frank, Taylor and the Morning Show gang to discuss all the current happenings in NASCAR. 1110AM 93.5FM or online at WTBQ.COM. You can also follow me on twitter @JimLaplante.
