The family feud between Carl Edwards and Bob Osborne got sorted out just in time as they both knew the car was seconds away from running out of gas in the Sunoco Red Cross Pennsylvania 500, but the tank had just enough fumes to give Edwards his fourth victory of the season. One can only speculate but it was a good thing there were enough fumes in the tank because that would have been a strange site to see, Edwards coasting to the side as his car died one lap from victory, and an even stranger explanation to ownership on why he didn’t pit. Fortunately for all parties involved they latter did not happen and Edwards was pouring champagne. "Carl had a premonition that this thing would not get rained out," Osborne said. "I'm glad he did because I thought we were done for. But that's what makes this a great team. Everybody has an opinion." As in most cases in NASCAR, there is only one opinion that matters and that’s the driver. This time, he made the right call and spared the team the drama….and humiliation. In all actuality Osborne and other crew chiefs are there for a reason and in the position to see things the driver can’t. Edwards got away with it this time but next time he may no be so lucky and will have a lot of explaining to do if his luck runs out.
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Carl Edwards said an interview during the rain delay that when he saw Jimmie heading to the pits behind him he changed his plan and went toopitting. Osburn was wanting to stay out but Carl said Jimmy and those guys usually have the strategy of the races exactly right so he followed him. (yes Carl was in front so he technically didn't "follow him" but as Tony and Jimmie headed toward the pits Carl turned real fast to get back in line with them)
Obviously Carl has more faith in Chad Knaus' strategy then his own crew chief, but who could blame him.
What a great race...I am personally not a great fan of this car but i dont think anyone could argue that todays race was boring. Part of the drama was watching the 18 fall apart at the end. That team has chosen the wrong time of year to find misfortune. Yes...i know...if the chase were to start today he'd have a 30? point lead on the 99. Regardless they are in trouble. I totally agree with the comments Mark Martin made on Friday. This field should be really nervous that the 48 team has made significant improvements in the last six weeks. Anyone can tell by JJ's interviews that something has changed there, much more excitement in what that team is doing. Tack on the 99's success and the 88's consistency, wow. I'd be very concerned if I were working in the 18 camp, regardless of any point lead at the chase start.
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