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Let's say you have two choices. You can choose a snoozer race with a thrilling finish -- like Sunday's -- or a great race that fizzles at the end. So what do you really want?

Jimmie Johnson has won three of the first five races in the Sprint Cup Series. Yet he still trails Kevin Harvick and Matt Kenseth in the standings. Something doesn't add up.

If NASCAR doesn't suspend Carl Edwards for intentionally wrecking Brad Keselowski at Atlanta, it'll happen again. And next time, someone could get killed.

If the two photo finishes in the Gatorade Duel qualifying races are any indication, we're in for one heckuva treat when the green flag drops on Sunday's Daytona 500.

Not even a last-minute ban on bump drafting in the corners could prevent the typical finish at Talladega, where mayhem rules and the luck of the draw determines the last man standing.

It's a new year, a new Chase and a new beginning for championship contenders. But it's the same old Jimmie Johnson, who happens to be the best race car driver on the planet.

What did we learn from Round 1 in the Chase for the Cup? The driver who ultimately wins the 2009 title probably needs to finish in the top five almost every race.

Mark Martin blew his chance at a top-5 finish Sunday at Michigan by running out of fuel. Even worse? He blew a chance to solidify his spot in the Chase field.

The new restart rule simply rocked Sunday at New Hampshire. Now just wait for the double-file restarts Saturday night at Daytona.

You think Mine That Bird was a long shot to win the Derby? How about Tony Stewart winning the 2009 Sprint Cup title in his own equipment? It's not so crazy.

He hasn't won a points race in 46 tries, but Jeff Gordon isn't worried. Four straight top-six finishes and the early points lead have the No. 24 "in championship form."

Joey Logano already has the weight of the NASCAR world on his shoulders. That load got even heavier after a disastrous debut at Daytona.

Talladega notebook

Talladega notebook

California notebook

New Hampshire notebook