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Laura,Tx [via mobile]

Oh David, where to start. Mayfield being a methhead, Kyle thinking he's Nascar's resident rocker or the unknown future of Dale with a new right hand man. I'll let you take this one and run with it. Oh wait, let me give a shout out to my number 9 Bud team! Ok, now its all yours.

David Newton

  (2:01 PM)

Hi all. Just finished spraying weed killer in the backyard. Now ready to kill an hour with you guys. What bettr way to start than with a Mayfield question. Or was it a Kyle question? Or a Junior question? My goodness, it was all three. First of all, Mayfield still will have his day in court. The Kyle guitar smashing I actually thought was cool. And Junior? Not so great with the new crew chief yet. Now we're rolling. Next.

Dan (Minneapolis MN) [via mobile]

Do you think that if a well liked driver like Junior smashed a custom painted guitar in victory lane people would of acted the same as when Rowdy did it, or would people have said it was the best vicotry celebration every.

David Newton

  (2:02 PM)

People would be so happy to see Junior in Victory Lane they wouldn't care if he burned it up.

nereida,goodyear,az [via mobile]

Should aric almirola go back to nationwide racing back to trucks or just go back to dirt late models?

David Newton

  (2:02 PM)

He should go wherever he can get a ride? Nobody notices you when you're sitting at home.

WENDEL KING BENTON,TN [via mobile]

CAN KAHNE WIN AT BROOKLY,MI

David Newton

  (2:03 PM)

Sure. But I'd rather go with Biffle, Edwards, Busch, Johnson or Stewart.

Brian (Ft Knox, KY)

Do you think Tony Stewart's two teams will make the chase?? And will one of them win the Championship??

David Newton

  (2:05 PM)

Stewart and Newman definitely will make the Chaes. Bank on it. They are in. Stewart's won two titles, so there's no reason to think he can't win a third. The job they've done is just amazing. I jokingly told Rick Hendrick a few weeks ago he needs to stop giving those guys the best engines. He laughed.

david hartwell ga [via mobile]

HELL YEAH SMOKE!! i knew his first one was coming i believe he is a serious threat to win the title how bout you

David Newton

  (2:05 PM)

Just answered that one. Heck yeah I agree.

Nick Rolando (Orlando)

David, good to talk to again and thanks again for the chats. When are we going to hear about the 5th Roush Car situation and how many cars for Yates next year, 3 or 4?

David Newton

  (2:06 PM)

It shouldn't be long before they announce plans for 2010. I'm still betting it will be McMurray to Yates and they will go with three cars. If sponsorship comes for a fourth they'll expand, but that doesn't seem likely at the moment.

BJ (Des Moines, IA)

If NASCAR had "Grand Slam" or "Majors" races, which ones would they be?

David Newton

  (2:07 PM)

Daytona, Indy, Darlington and . . . Bristol. I almost said Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte, and you easily could throw it in there. What do you guys think?

Boo lewistown pa [via mobile]

Hi dave do you think dale jr. Will make the chase. thanks

David Newton

  (2:08 PM)

Has anybody tested your B sample? Have you looked at the standings? He's 20th and so far back he can't see the 12th spot.

Tank (US)

When R U going to get on Twitter

David Newton

  (2:09 PM)

Tank, missed you last week. I have a Twitter sight, but I honestly haven't been on it for three weeks. There are so many people following me that it scares me. Wish they'd come up with a better term. I do check into Facebook every day. Managing two sights is too much for me. Doesn't leave time to talk to you guys.

Ed (Hartord)

Ayrton Senna was my favorite driver. He was obsessed with driving as fast as he could and winning. Kyle Busch is like that. Why do NASCAR and the Fans like the "guy next door" Persona for their drivers? Think about it. You HAVE TO be crazy devote your life to driving on the edge week in and week out. Thet aren't REGULAR GUYS by any means!

David Newton

  (2:11 PM)

You're right, nobody regular would do what they do. I can't tell you why fans pick a certain driver. I have to remain impartial, but I know what I like and there was nothing offensive to me about the guitar smashing. He won it. He promised his crew a part of it. He can do whatever he wants.

Jerry (Tampa, FL)

Nice column today. What's funny is essentially all comments so far are Kyle fans and Dale Jr. fans arguing, thus proving they are nicer to each other in person than the internet.

David Newton

  (2:13 PM)

Thanks. It was fun getting a feel for them. And you are right, they were nice to each other. They're all Cup fans, after all.

Chuck (Radford, VA)

Kahne has had a pretty good car lately, he had a top-3 car at Darlington and a top-5 car the past 3 weeks. Do you see him getting into the winner's circle this year?

David Newton

  (2:14 PM)

He has improved and the new engine should help. Give him some power and he can drive the wheels off. RPM's money problems do concern me, though.

COATESVILLE PA [via mobile]

I JUST WANTED TO LET JEFF GORDON KNOW I AM HIS BIGGEST FAN AND ALSO YOU ARE GOING TO WIN IN THE POINTS STANDINGS AND THE WHOLE NASCAR THIS SEASON I HAVE ALL MY FAITH IN YOU JEFF GORDON AND SAY HELLO TO LITTLE ELLA FOR ME YOU ARE THE GREATEST JEFF GORDON AND I HOPE YOUR BACK IS FEELING ALOT BETTER

David Newton

  (2:15 PM)

I'll pass all of that along. I'm sure he'll appreciate it.

Los Angeles [via mobile]

Now that Jr received a little press do you think you guys in the press will judge on his driving. I love watxhing hid fade before our eyes. You should call him what he is a non factor..

David Newton

  (2:15 PM)

I think I did that earlier in the chat when I said he wouldn't make the Chase.

Marion (SC)

David,What is going on with RPM are they planning a switch to Toyota?With that deal with Braun Racing in the nationwide series it seems so.it also looks Dodge wants one team in 2010 I guess its Penske

David Newton

  (2:16 PM)

I've got a few details I can't share on here but may have later in the day to answer your question on RPM. Don't believe everything you've read so far is all I will say now.

RANDY RITCHIE (WHEATFIELD INDIANA)

hey DAVID should I take the 77 or the 20 this weekend at MICHIGAN

David Newton

  (2:17 PM)

I'd go with the 20. Joey has come a long way in a short time and he'll be knocking at the door of the top 20 soon. I'll go a step further and say he finishes ahead of Dale Jr.

OchoCinco (Chevy Chase, MD)

Who is the next Cup driver to get the axe?

David Newton

  (2:18 PM)

Not sure if you are talking about a Jeremy Mayfield type axe or just plain fired. I hate to say it, but probably Sadler if it's the second choice.

Scott ((Atlanta))

Is Shrub in danger of eventually getting "Jimmy Spencer-ed", like his big brother from one of the drivers, or is he fairly popular amongst his fellow drivers (sans Junior)?

David Newton

  (2:19 PM)

Kyle ticked off a lot of people when he first came into the sport, but he's earning their respect now. There's really nothing to retaliate for, at least in Cup.

Brandon (Hamilton,Ohio)

Why do Busch and Jr fans hate eachother that much. Reminds me of how Gordon and Earnhart fans hated each other

David Newton

  (2:20 PM)

I don't think they hate each other, but one person made an interesting comment about how Junior fans resent Busch because people compare him to Junior's dad. What do you think?

Rich (Clearwater)

DN, hope all is well today. Last week you said here you'd ask to see what Jr and Kyle talked about. Was it you that asked the question at Kyle's PC? He seemed sincere about having "no issue with Jr.". What'd you find out about the conversation?

David Newton

  (2:21 PM)

Didn't find out anything. Neither is talking about it. In fact, Junior politely didn't do interviews all weekend. And no, it wasn't me that asked the question.

RAY GORDON REID ( BOSTON MA 02201)

QUESTION TO DAVID NEWTON AT 2. 10 PM HI DAVID WHO YOUR PICK FOR MICHIGAN SUNDAY

David Newton

  (2:22 PM)

Carl Edwards. The Roush cars run well there and he's due. He had the best car last week and probably would have run had it not come down to fuel mileage. Don't discount JJ either.

Jr. (jr nation)

where will Jr. finish 22-30th??

David Newton

  (2:23 PM)

Nah, I'd go 20th to 27th.

Greg (Richmond, VA)

When will Denny Hamlin get a new crew chief? Something needs to happen to keep that boy off the ledge.

David Newton

  (2:24 PM)

Mike Ford actually is good for Denny. It was kind of interesting last weekend that he dogged Denny for blaming poor finishes on bad luck. Of course, he may have changed his mind after the first lap when Denny's car wouldn't fire. He would have been a factor had that not happened.

Jason (Lexington, KY)

Hey Dave. How many more years do you give Jeff Gordon in the sport if his back situation continues on the current course? How about if he goes the surgically repaired route during an offseason? Statistics and numerology would like to see him drive until 2017, because that would mean 8 years in the Rainbow car, 8 years in the Red/Blue Flames car, and 8 years in the Orange/Black Hot Hues car, for a total of 24 full time years in Cup....don't laugh. Realistically though, I can't see him driving at the age of 45, as his daughter would be almost 10 years old by then. What do you think?

David Newton

  (2:25 PM)

I am not laughing. I am amazed you thought of that, though. I agree, he won't drive at 45. I give him 2-3 more years unless the back improves and he gets on a real roll.

RANDY RITCHIE (WHEATFIELD INDIANA)

HEY DAVID WOULD YOU GO WITH THE 77 OR THE 20 THIS WEEKEND AT MICHIGAN

David Newton

  (2:26 PM)

My bad. Posted this for a second tmie and with our new format I don't see a delete button. Oh well.

adam (nc)

With looks of RPM going to Toyota will this hault the R6 Engine ?

David Newton

  (2:27 PM)

Nobody said they were for sure going to Toyota. And they are working overtime to get the new engine in all of the cars, not just Kahne's.

south Boston Va [via mobile]

Why don't the cars have brake light in back glass on the super speedways to help avoid the big one? Wouldn't it help avoid it as well as be a safety issue ?

David Newton

  (2:27 PM)

Because if they did drivers would use them to fake people behind them out on restarts and in other critical situations.

Felipe (Dallas)

Hey David, Any chance JPM goes back to IRL driving for Ganassi if Truex leaves EGR and they can not find another driver/sponsor? What are the chances they dont get a second car and would they run a one car team?

David Newton

  (2:28 PM)

First, Truex is going to leave EGR. I'd bank on it. I believe the deal at Michael Waltrip Racing is for real. As for what will happen, stay tuned. Could be a major shakeup.

Rich (Clearwater)

DN, hope all is well today. Last week you said here you'd ask to see what Jr and Kyle talked about. Was it you that asked the question at Kyle's PC? He seemed sincere about having "no issue with Jr.". What'd you find out about the conversation?

David Newton

  (2:29 PM)

Did it again. Need that delete key.

Kurt Busch (On a boat)

Man ive turned the 4th most fastest laps this year just behind martin gordon and johnson. Johnson said im his biggest threat in the chase. You think ill win again at michigan? BTW Matt Kenseth told me hes gunna be here shortly.

David Newton

  (2:31 PM)

Good day to be on a boat. Man, it's hot here. And you have had a good season so far. You'll finish in the top 10 at Michigan, but win ... probably not. Tell Matt hello. And tell everybody else in make believe land hello as well.

james (england)

kyle busch = AROD....both choke in the playoffs

David Newton

  (2:32 PM)

That's pretty harsh.

Blair ((burlington, nc))

David, Im going to go out on a limb and say all 5 roush cars finish in the top 10 this weekend. Seems as though the had it together last week with the big 3, and can pass along info to the other 2. Your thoughts...

David Newton

  (2:33 PM)

I'll say three will finish in the top 10. All five would be a stretch. I like Kenseth, Edwards and Biffle.

Scott (Atlanta)

Yes or No...will Elliot Sadler be in a Cup ride next year?

David Newton

  (2:34 PM)

I'd say 50-50. I don't believe he'll be at RPM. Will somebody else pick him up, I don't know.

Dan (NY)

How do you think RPM will look next year drivers,manufact,ETC...

David Newton

  (2:35 PM)

I still think they'll be with Dodge. Driver lineup, Kahne, Allmendinger, Sorenson and a driver to be named later.

Andy ((Michigan))

What's the best finish so far for each of the three series in your opinion?

David Newton

  (2:38 PM)

I'd be lying if I said I've seen all the finishes in all three series this year or any year. As for Cup, there have been quite a good finishes over the past month. Last weekend was exciting only because of the fuel mileage drama. Phoenix was pretty good. All the races are blurring into one at the moment. Help me out.

Jeff (Lafayette, LA)

Do you know if Penske is interested in Danica? Seems like the perfect situation, he can put her in 4th car with Kurt's points, or just use her to replace Stremme. Up and coming team, and Penske can find a place on his IndyCar team for her if things don't work out.

David Newton

  (2:40 PM)

I don't believe Danica is serious about Cup first of all. She'd have to spend a year or two in Nationwide preparing and I don't believe she wants to give up the limelight for the second tier series. And even then there's no gurantees. She's just getting to the point where she can consistently compete for wins in the IRL. She'll stay there. As for Penske, if she would sign I would replace Stremme in a heartbeat. Nothing against David. He's a nice guy, but Danica is a gold mine.

Scott ((AZ))

David, whats the worst commercial for a nascar driver this year?

David Newton

  (2:41 PM)

The new one with Kahne is kind of drab. To be honest, I usually don't pay attention to the commercials. I put on the mute button for Digger as well.

Scott (Atlanta)

How much longer can Robby Gordon survive as a single car operation always on the cusp of falling out of the top 35? Would an established, powerhouse team think enough of him to partner with him ala Stewart-Hass?

David Newton

  (2:42 PM)

Robby has more sponsor money than most think. He said last year, I believe, that he has more fans worldwide than Junior. He was serious. When you count all the fans he has from every series he drives in that could be true.

Occupant (29 Floors Above Sea Level)

The whole Mayfield saga makes no sense, why would a person who owns a Sprint Cup team drive the organization into the ground denying they do drugs, at some point you would think his wife or someone else would say enough already. Wikianswers provides an answer to the question Does adderall make you test positive for meth on a drug test?...Yes it can all drug contain ephedra can test positive for mat and amp. Very interested how this unfolds. Keep up the good work.

David Newton

  (2:43 PM)

I can't tell you why or if he really did. What I can tell you is they have sophisticated tests that can separate whether a positive test, and in this case with the B sample, was for meth or Adderall or Claritin D.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey David,First of all, thank you for all of your great work. Do you know of any other current drivers who have plans of becoming an owner/driver like Tony Stewart? Also, I thought Kyle Busch's guitar trophy smashing was absolutely disrespectful. Can I have your thoughts?

David Newton

  (2:45 PM)

By the way, the "25 Hottest Hollywood Cougars'' is on the E channel. Anybody know who is No. 1. I can't stand the drama. As for Craig's question, thanks for the compliment. On the ownership deal, Dale Jr. might be the next candidate if JR Motorsports moves to Cup. He wouldn't drive for his own organization, but he would be an owner and driver. As for the guitar, as I stated earlier I thought it was pretty cool. Everybody complains that drivers are too vanilla. I'm not about to complain when one dares to take a chance.

Bobby (Midland Park Nj )

Hey David Dale Jr is really Hut Srticklin in disguise. The 24 to Victory lane Sundee

David Newton

  (2:46 PM)

Funny guy.

casper (va)

i know its a very complex answer buuut how much does the average pit crew man make?

David Newton

  (2:46 PM)

It's not complex. And I don't have a specific answer. Some make around six figures. I haven't done a story on that in a while so I don't know the latest numbers. I do know the scale has dropped some with the economy.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Will Ford and Toyota be the only manufacturers in 2011?

David Newton

  (2:47 PM)

No,Chevy and GM will be a big factor, and I believe Dodge will be around as well. Maybe even Hyundai. Can't wait to get my Sonota on the track.

RAY GORDON REID ( CINCINNATI OH 45201)

QUESTION TO DAVID NEWTON AT 2.25 PM HI DAVID WHOYOUR PICKFOR MICHIGAN

David Newton

  (2:48 PM)

Carl Edwards. It's time for a backflip, baby.

rgm34 (Holmes NY)

Jeff Gordon should take a look at the book Mind of Back Pain, by Dr. Sarno. Doing so did a world of good for me over 20 years ago. Oddly enough have Howard Stern to thank for the book reference.

David Newton

  (2:48 PM)

Speaking of Stern, what's up with him and Jay Leno?

RANDY RITCHIE (WHEATFIELD INDIANA)

i would think the 77 would be good this weekend b/c of his open-wheel experience at michigan

David Newton

  (2:49 PM)

You asked for my pick. I gave it. If you want to go out on your own that's your choice. The 77 does have experience there, so go with your heart and we can debate who was right next week.

Jason (Lexington, KY)

Do you see a Roush car winning this weekend, or with the way SHR and HMS have been running, is it a safer bet to see one of those Chevys win instead?

David Newton

  (2:50 PM)

I like Roush here. As I've said, Edwards, Edwards, Edwards.

Laura,Tx [via mobile]

Oh David, where to start. Mayfield being a methhead, Kyle thinking he's Nascar's resident rocker or the unknown future of Dale with a new right hand man. I'll let you take this one and run with it. Oh wait, let me give a shout out to my number 9 Bud team! Ok, now its all yours.

David Newton

  (2:51 PM)

That's three I've posted twice. I don't get any more strikes.

Marion (SC)

Come on David whats the scoop ! Does RPM Dodge still have a future.Is Braun going to field them Dodges?

David Newton

  (2:51 PM)

Yes, RPM does have a future with Dodge. But there is a story here.

WENDEL KING BENTON,TN [via mobile]

will kahne win a race this year

David Newton

  (2:52 PM)

I'd say the odds are 45-55.

James (LA, CA)

Who is the better driver at this point, Vickers or mcMurray?

David Newton

  (2:53 PM)

I'll go with Vickers, but both have underachieved.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (Not on Kurt's boat)

I debated how to put this out to the public, but I'm finally going to reveal it here. I'm leaving Hendrick Motorsports. I'm going to be driving for a new team next year... Kyle Busch Motorsports. Hopefully we can get to victory lane soon with all the tech support will be receiving from JGR. I hope my fans will be willing to stick with me as I make the best move for my career.

David Newton

  (2:54 PM)

Tap your heels three times and you'll be back in Kansas soon.

Dr. Says Me (Green Day Lane)

I do not like this new format,I do not like it, no, not one bit,Go away from this and go back to That,I do not like it and it is ....Poo.

David Newton

  (2:54 PM)

So what's the big difference on your end? The only big difference I see on my end is I can't find a delete key once I put a question up for the second time. I do like the bigger type size I get. My eyes are going.

devin (whitmore lake )

duse jimmie bad luck stop at mis

David Newton

  (2:55 PM)

Bad luck? He won two weeks ago. Dominated at Dover. He had one of the top cars last week before running out of gas and still finshed seventh. Most would kill for that bad luck.

Adam (Galax)

Should NASCAR add more road courses to the schedule?

David Newton

  (2:56 PM)

Yes. They should send the sport and me to Monte Carlo. Otherise, just add one to the Chase.

james (england)

HELLO TALLEDEGA FOR BEST FINISH

David Newton

  (2:56 PM)

Thanks for the reminder. That was spectacular. Almost forgot.

Marc (Malden, MA)

How will Chrysler's sale to Fiat affect Dodge's participation in NASCAR?

David Newton

  (2:57 PM)

It only helps. The stronger the company the more willingness for Chrysler to compete.

Jake (Manhattan, KS)

Hey PK, any well known driver not named Sadler up to lose their ride next year?

David Newton

  (2:58 PM)

How did you know I was a Preacher's Kid? As for drivers on the chopping block, none really at this point beyond the one you mentioned.

corey (iowa)

Any truth to the rumor of Rusty moving his team to cup next year? Also do you think Hornish Jr, will finish in the top 20 in points this year?

David Newton

  (2:59 PM)

Rusty hasn't shared his plans with me. I'd say he needs to win more consistent in Nationwide before jumping to Cup, although sponsorship may be easier to get in Cup. As for Hornish, it'll be close.

Ed (Hartford)

David your answers are out of cync. I'll answer one...Brake Lights? by the time you noticed them on I'd be too late

David Newton

  (2:59 PM)

Sorry. I am answering them as I always do. Will check on this.

Jeff (East Bay, CA)

Newt! What are your top five drivers to win the championship at this point in the season?

David Newton

  (3:00 PM)

Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch and Kurt Busch.

Johnny (michigan)

I'm a huge Brad Keselowski fan. Do you think he'll be in Sprint Cup next year? If so, then where?

David Newton

  (3:00 PM)

He's said he plans to drive fulltime, and with a Hendrick team. HMS is all full, so that leaves Stewart-Haas or JR Motorsports moving up to Cup. We'll see.

Patterson (Augusta, Ga)

Do you think Dale Jr will stay at Hendrick Motorsports?

David Newton

  (3:01 PM)

YES.

Brandon (Queen creek AZ)

David, please tell me that JR's team is smart enough to toss this year a way and start taking some risks to get the car and JR running right. It should be all about the wins from here on out to build some confidence for next year.

David Newton

  (3:01 PM)

OK, I will tell you. They are smart enough to do that.

Marc (Malden, MA)

I don't know who's #1, but I think my vote would go to Heather Locklear.

David Newton

  (3:02 PM)

I missed whatever led to this answer, but I am with you on Heather.

Digger (Under the ground)

David, why don't you like me? I'm comical. And very animated. The only person who has more personality than me is Kyle Busch! David, why must you hurt me so?

David Newton

  (3:02 PM)

Cause you are annoying.

Jamerson (Georgia)

How do you rate Mark Martin's chances at winning the championship? Is the #5 team going to be strong and consistent enough to make a serious challenge? I'm a huge Mark Martin fan, but I'm not sure they'll be able to take on the #48 team and win.

David Newton

  (3:02 PM)

You know, when I named my top 5 I left Mark out. I probably shouldn't have done that. I truly believe he'll be a factor, assuming he makes the Chase.

David Newton

  (3:04 PM)

Well, my time is over. Actually, it's been over for three minutes. I tried to get to as many of you as possible. For some reason I felt slow today. Will try to do better next week. Until then, have a great week.