Jeff Burton had a hugely disappointing season in 2011. (Photo: Getty Images)
Every NASCAR season has a surprise or two or three, but 2011’s Cup overflowed in that category.
Trevor Bayne winning the Daytona 500?
Paul Menard winning at Indy?
David Ragan recovering from a February mistake to win at Daytona in the summer?
Regan Smith winning the Southern 500?
Brad Keselowski scoring three wins and finishing fifth in points?
Are you kidding?
This bounty of imagination isn’t likely to be repeated in 2012, but there is some potential out there:
A Win For The Dinger? – AJ Allmendinger made the best off-season move, accepting the potent No. 22 ride at Penske Racing. This could be his victory year.
Menard To The Chase? – Paul Menard certified himself as more than simply a rich guy’s son by winning one of the biggest races of the season last year. He also showed general consistency throughout the season.
A Title For Kahne? – After a career waiting for good things to happen, Kasey Kahne puts on the big-boy pants this year and will be outfitted with everything he needs at Hendrick Motorsports.
A Bounceback For Burton? – One of the most alarming statistics from 2011 is this – Jeff Burton had only five top 10s. It’s time for a rebound from one of the sport’s classiest drivers.
A Victory For Kurt Busch? – Clearly, Kurt Busch has the talent. But he drops down a level at Phoenix Racing. The team’s year will be interesting.
Danica Wins In Nationwide? – First major series victory by a woman? OK, that would qualify as surprising.
Mike Hembree is NASCAR Editor for SPEED.com and has been covering motorsports for 29 years. He is a six-time winner of the National Motorsports Press Association Writer of the Year Award.
