Comparing the players in the Earnhardt Jr. drama (cont'd)

Clearly of late Busch and Truex have posted better numbers, but over time Dale Jr. is still the man among this crew. However, I'll plan on looking at these stats again sometime next season. I'm really starting to believe in the No. 1 car.

Now, just for fun I've thrown together Johnson, Gordon and Stewart's figures as well.

Jimmie and Tony's numbers are eye-popping, but Gordon is playing a different sport. These stats make it seem like he's flying an F-14 around the track. The guy is averaging -- yes averaging -- nearly six wins a season. His disproportionate numbers are Barry Bonds like, only with fuel being the only type of injection rather than -- well, I'd prefer to not get sued so I'll let you fill in the joke on this one.

This all leads us back to the statement the venerable reporter who shall remain nameless made about Busch being the most talented driver.

Question of the Week

This is a question that has bothered me since I began watching NASCAR. It's a two-part question that will require you to first insert a driver's name and then explain how you have come to your conclusion. If someone sets my mind free and solves this problem the NASCAR world will be forever grateful.

The questions are as follows: Who is the most naturally talented driver in NASCAR and more importantly what are the criteria that are the basis for determining "driver talent" in NASCAR? Basically, I want to know who you think is the most naturally gifted driver and how do you figure out who has the most "driver talent."

As always, send your thoughts on the subject to my inbox at Beau.Estes@Turner.com and I'll post the best responses in next week's column.

Last Week's Question of the Week

In the column a week ago, I wanted to know the answer to a question that brings into question the entire sport of NASCAR. I made my feelings plain on the subject, but I wanted to give you -- the fans -- a chance to voice your opinion. The question was: Do you really think NASCAR plays favorites on the racetrack to the point of trying to create a specific outcome?

First off the quick poll results ...

No -- 56.6%
Yes -- 43.4%

Now, onto the best of the e-mails ...

There is no way that NASCAR plays favorites. First of all, they would not risk so much to their sport. With so many people involved it would surely be leaked to the press, then to the fans, and sponsors jump ship. The biggest reason it seems unlikely NASCAR plays favorites is look at who is winning - Hendrick, Hendrick, and Hendrick. People are tired of it; they want Junebug to win and he hasn't won in over a year. That would be the guy getting the help.
Tyler, Age 15 -- San Antonio, Fla.

My thoughts exactly Tyler -- now go do some homework!

While I don't believe there is any grand conspiracy theory regarding fixing races, do believe that NASCAR wanted Gordon to win that race and made sure of it by throwing the yellow at that particular moment. To me, it's apparent ... NASCAR is a 24 fan ... and I don't mean the show on Fox.
Kyle -- Foster City, Calif.

This makes me wonder why I haven't seen Jack Bauer's mug on Jeff Gordon's car yet. Am I wrong? Have I missed this? The fastest car on the track meets the fastest show on TV. (Continued)