Saturday, March 20, 2010

Raceday at Bristol: All eyes on Edwards and Keselowski

By Jim Utter -

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1 . Will added SAFER barriers really tighten the racing at Bristol? There’s a mixed chorus from drivers, but if it does, Turn 4 will likely be a point of contention.

2. All eyes will be on Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski in today’s race, but it’s unlikely either would be foolish enough to intentionally get involved in another incident. However, NASCAR’s willingness to allow drivers to self-police and “have at it” should make for an interesting finish.

3. Jimmie Johnson may have won four consecutive Cup titles but one thing he still lacks on his resume is a win at Bristol. She starts fourth today; his third-best start in 17 races at the track.

OBSERVATIONS


--Lost in the Carl Edwards-Brad Keselowski aftermath, which includes several other Sprint Cup drivers continually expressing concern over Keselowski’s driving style, is this simple fact: NASCAR has never penalized Keselowski for any aggressive driving incident on the track. That’s right, NASCAR has never found anything wrong with any incident any other driver has accused Keselowski of instigating. Carl Edwards can’t say that. Most other drivers can’t say that, either. So if NASCAR doesn’t have a problem with how Keselowski drives, why should he make any effort to change?

--The further we go into the 2010 season the more legit Scott Speed appears. While he may not finish the season in the Top 12 and make the Chase, he has already shown far more patience and car control than a year ago.

--Bristol’s idea, started last season, to have drivers choose their own to song to be played at pre-race introductions is one of the most creative – and popular – in the sport.

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