NASCAR: The Five Biggest Mid-Season Surprises Of 2016

#3 – No. 88, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. – Hendrick Motorsports

Why hasn’t Dale Earnhardt, Jr. won a race yet this season?  That’s one of the most frequently asked questions every week.  The NASCAR world might fall off of its axis when it reads this summary, but I’m not convinced that he wants to win any more.  This doesn’t mean that he is any less talented or that his skills have diminished to any degree, it just appears that he is at a point in his life where other priorities are starting to come into greater focus and his thoughts have sometimes shifted to his life after NASCAR.

He is engaged to be married, and clearly is ready for that change.  He has even used the “R” word (retirement) in several conversations.  He loves to examine and appreciate the sport’s history.  Also, in recent years, some key people such as Jeff Gordon and Steve Letarte who have mentored him throughout his career have transitioned away from visible roles in both the sport and Dale’s life.

With an average finish of 15.7 so far this year, the team is capable of winning.  If you remove the four DNFs that this team has, the average finish would be even higher.  Hendrick resources are second-to-none, so equipment and preparation isn’t an issue.  The only component which remains is the driver.

I think that he will win a race to earn a berth in the Chase, and has every reason to be a contender for the championship.  However, he will need to do a little introspection and rekindle that competitive fire to do so.

Next: #2 - Old Age & Treachery Overcomes Youth And Skill