NASCAR: The Five Biggest Mid-Season Surprises Of 2016

Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

We are at the half-way point of the 2016 NASCAR Sprint Cup season.  Each season brings surprises, both positive and negative.  Here, we examine our five biggest surprises thus far.  What are yours?

Beginning each season, every driver and team is filled with optimism about the season which is about to begin and goals and expectations are plentiful.  For some, it might be to maintain strong performance from the previous season while for others it might be an opportunity to reset everything and focus on what is to come.  Still others might harbor a little bit of apprehension if they are with a new team, a new crew chief or a new manufacturer.

The half-way point of the season is a natural point at which to evaluate progress and to determine what is working and what is not.  2016 had not been unlike prior years in that some pleasant surprises have emerged while other drivers might label their performance to this point as disappointing.

Here, we at Beyond The Flag present our five biggest surprises plus an honorable mention for the season so far.  Some are obvious, while others might not be so.  Be sure to reach us via our social media channels or leave a comment below to share your thoughts!

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