> Carl Edwards is not a household name. Not yet, but soon. I think I heard his name for the first time less than a year ago. He was racing a truck in a NASCAR truck series race and I could tell he was getting everything possible out of that truck.
>
> Then last weekend he won both NASCAR races at Hampton, Georgia. The big Cup race on Sunday was won in style. He chased down the leader and passed him coming out of the last turn. The margin of victory was only about half a car length.
>
> Suddenly, Carl Edwards was in the big time. Even if fans can't remember his name, they know his signature celebration. When he wins, he stands up on the window sill of the car and does a back flip. Great style, but I hope he doesn't land on his head and knock himself out of the next race.
>
> Winning isn't the only thing he has going for him. NASCAR drivers with charisma make a lot of commercials and public appearences. Edwards is young with an easy, boyish smile. He admits that he is having the time of his life. He has the talent and the personality to become the next Jeff Gordon. Keep an eye on him.
> Howard


Only problem I have with Edwards is that he's 50% hype. The media is DYING to turn this guy into a star. Everybody is absolutely fawning over him, and you can't get 5 seconds into a conversation or an article about him without some reporter saying "I just KNOW he's going to be NASCAR's next big star!" The guy is OBVIOUSLY an immense talent, like you said, driving the wheels of his car Sunday to run down Johnson with one lap to go and that incredible pass he made on Saturday to win the Busch race. But it's almost like a case of "if we just say it often enough, it will come true!" as far as the media is concerned.

Plus, he drives for Rousch, which is highly unacceptable!! And the way Rousch handled Jeff Burton in order to make room for Edwards is distasteful.

Signed,

DEI and RCR fan. ;-)