Junior may just be an innocent bystander in the intensified competition crossfire. The second half of the year is when the seasoned veterans usually rise to the occasion. Guys like Jeff Burton, Bobby Labonte, Dale Jarrett, and Dale Earnhardt Sr. come to the track clothed in battle armor. The extremely high level of competition in October and November eventually thins out the herd. Drivers scratch and claw for positions and points that could affect their chances of claiming the crown.
Cars are pushed to the limit, parts break, tires go flat, and accidents take place.
This is what happened to Junior this past week in Martinsville, where he looked more like a gladiator than a driver. He was involved in several altercations, but during his last crash he hit the wall so hard his car burst into flames and bent his steering wheel. He made it out relatively unscathed, but it may have been the hardest lick he has ever taken. It was one hell of a hit, but I'm all right. It's a lot of fun to get out there and beat and bang.