Can a compelling Chase boost TV ratings?
Few trends are more disturbing to NASCAR than the drop in TV ratings during the Chase and at the end of the season. But that’s what has happened the past few years, with ratings taking a sharp dip during the Chase. That is particularly disconcerting this year since ratings have continued to decline this season. The most logical conclusion is that Jimmie Johnson’s dominance and streak of four straight championships have turned fans off and made them tune out during the Chase. But this year’s Chase is expected to be the most competitive in a while, and Johnson already is off to a slow start. Will a close race and the possibility of a new champion give NASCAR a spark and boost ratings during the Chase? 4. Can young drivers Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano repair their damaged reputations? Keselowski and Logano, two aggressive, hard-charging youngsters, have stirred up a ton of trouble this year. Keselowski has had ugly feuds with Carl Edwards and Kyle Busch, and all three incidents wound u
