Dale Earnhardt Jr spent a lot of time in victory lane throughout the first half of the 2000's. After all, 16 of his 18 career victories occurred from 2000 to 2005. Perhaps fans and media alike took his success for granted. Sure, he was the topic of converstion quite a bit throughout his days of winning. He was the most popular driver in NASCAR, just like he is today. Articles regarding Earnhardt Jr generated the most hits. His exodus from DEI and entrance to Hendrick Motorsports was perhaps the most publicized silly season move in NASCAR history. With that said, I do not recall the media coverage of Earnhardt Jr to be as extensive as it is now.
It is no secret that Earnhardt Jr has hit a major slide in performance, with bright spots few and far between. Typically, when that happens to a driver, they tend to fall off the radar. For instance, Bobby Labonte is the 2000 champion. But, as soon as he stopped winning and contending for wins, he is rarely brought up in NASCAR talk, unless you are a Bobby Labonte fan.
Scenedaily.com, which is a reputable publication by the way, covers Earnhardt Jr rather frequently, sometimes having two or three articles dedicated to Earnhardt and his quest to break out of this agonizing slump. Other publications follow suit. It seems as if they post an Earnhardt article when it is not really necessary. Do not mistake me, I am not complaining, but it is an interesting observation that not only myself, but thousands of others have noticed.
Perhaps the media took Earnhardt Jr for granted when he was winning. We could have had a field day back when he was winning and running towards the front on a weekly basis in that red Budweiser Chevy. We all know, covering Earnhardt Jr satisfies a colossal portion of the NASCAR fan base. Why else would so much Internet real estate be dedicated to a driver who has a total of two wins in five years?
Earnhardt Jr will win again someday, I truly believe that. So, when that happens, we will have reason to write and read articles about a victories Earnhardt instead of one who is frustrated, wondering when that next win will occur, or how crucial qualifying is for him at a particular track.
3 comments:
"Earnhardt Jr will win again someday, I truly believe that. So, when that happens, we will have reason to write and read articles about a victories (sic) Earnhardt instead of one who is frustrated, wondering when that next win will occur, or how crucial qualifying is for him at a particular track."
OK. In the meantime can we discuss the drivers who matter?
Thanks.
A great personality but personalities don't drive cars, drivers do. I think he is out of his league and needs to go back to the Nationwide series. He would do good there.
I Say, Just Kick some butt Dale, You will overcome the jerks who talk trash!! Take for Granted, I DON"T THINK SOOO!!!!!
Post a Comment