The most outstanding feature of last night's Bud Shootout was that what stood out the most was... well, racing.  You know, cars passing each other and stuff.  Certainly this was due at least in part to teams beginning to figure out how to make the CORN can something drivers can race with.  It also helped you had the pros involved.  Cuts way down on the shenanigans.

As the race wore down, a familiar sight emerged: the Big Four of NASCAR (Earnhardt Jr., Gordon, Stewart, Johnson) jockeying for the win.  Tonight was Dale Jr.'s turn.  A healing salve for the Junior Nation to be sure, although several injuries have already been reported from people trying to jump back on his bandwagon and missing the mark.

Regardless of who you root for or against, the race itself was something to cherish.  Lead changes.  Shifting lines.  Shifting fortunes rising and falling on each lap.  Basically, it was NASCAR at its best.  And that's mighty good stuff indeed.

Now comes Daytona 500 qualifying, where all members of the go or go home gang go for the front row so they know they'll at least be in the race.  The top 35 will sort out which Gatorade Duel race they'll be in and where they're starting in it.  And we'll try explaining yet again how we can spend a few hours watching one car at a time go down the track.  It won't work, but we'll try.

Racing is back.  And if the Saturday night shootout at the Daytona corral was any indication, this year could make up for last year and then some.

Don't forget the "Diary For Dale" contest running throughout the month of February!  You can win one of two 2008 Dale Jr. diecast cars!  Click here for more information!