Vickers Picks Up First Win Amongst Controversy

Talladega is the one track on the circuit that produces some of the most exciting and controversial finishes, and this weekend was no different. For the most part the race went along without incident, until a late race wreck that included chase contenders Jeff Gordon and Denny Hamlin. Their misfortunes did not produce the majority of the spotlight after the race; instead it was the race winner who attracted the controversy.

With a lap to go it looked as if Dale Earnhardt Jr. would pick up another Talladega victory. Heading into the last lap it came down to three drivers; Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jimmie Johnson and Brian Vickers. Going into turn three of the final lap Johnson looked to make his move, with Vickers following suit, but Vickers unintentionally bumped Johnson which sent him up into Dale Jr., taking them both out of the race and putting Vickers into victory lane for the first time in his career. Vickers victory lap and celebration came amongst numerous boos from the crowd who were obviously were upset over the finish (will discuss later).

As predicted the points tightened up with numerous drivers having problems throughout the race including championship leader Jeff Burton. Burton blew a tire late which brought Matt Kenseth, Mark Martin, Kevin Harvick and Denny Hamlin closer to the lead. The rest of the top five included Kasey Kahne, Kurt Busch, Matt Kenseth and Martin Truex Jr.