NASCAR: Breaking Down Hendrick Motorsports’ Struggles
By Cole Mentzel
The No. 88 Team
One of the biggest stories of the season has come in the form of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s concussion.
Though he didn’t have any wins before his injury, he had finished in second-place on four separate occasions (Atlanta, Texas, Bristol, Pocono) and looked destined to pick up a win before the Chase began.
However, he’s been stuck on the sideline for the past three races as Jeff Gordon has filled in. With Earnhardt Jr. not competing, he’s missed out on points in those races and has fallen below the Chase cut line.
Excited to report I had a great trip to the doctor today for evaluation. Doctors and I both are feeling positive about the progress.
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) August 2, 2016
Earnhardt Jr.’s health is the number one priority in his life right now–as it should be–and it’s been awesome seeing how he has handled such an unfortunate series of events and how open and honest he’s been about everything that has gone on during the recovery process.
must read: NASCAR Outdoes All Other Sports In One Major Area
The season may be over for Earnhardt Jr.–in terms of championship contention–but the most important task for him in 2016 is to get healthy and get back out on the track. Hopefully we’ll get to see him in action before the Chase begins.