Has NASCAR found it's new Superstar in Ross Chastain? | Dale Jr. Download

Dale Jr makes the argument that right now is the time to use the momentum and fandom Ross Chastain currently has to create a persona like "The Intimidator" or "The Man In Black" like was done for his father, Dale Earnhardt.
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[@shelbyhowe882]

The irony is that I went to school with Ross from 6th to 12th grade and that man never once got into so much as an argument in school. Any time you seen him he had the biggest smile on his face and was always a southern gentleman! One of the few people that was friends with EVERYONE

[@groovelife415]

Because he got his aggression out on the track. It's the same with people who compete in boxing or MMA as well.

[@Feller1853]

At the age of 70 and having watched racing all my life I finally purchased my first driver tee shirt. My Ross Chastain tee shirt should be delivered tomorrow.

[@mattdyer489]

I love how ross doesn't give a damn who you are. He is going to race you hard and if you want to try to step up to him, he isnt afraid to throw hands. Ross is a young driver with a old school mentality.

[@GeoffGroves]

Right? Until you realize he is in way over his head, and wrecks himself like today at Darlington. Everyone's a hero with soft walls. That little biatch's days are numbered.

[@starthistlelounge3884]

Things were different in the 70s and 80s...American culture appreciated a "no holds barred" approach to success, no matter the field. Still, I think Dale Jr is on to something and Ross is probably smooth enough to pull off an "intimidator" marketing campaign. Also, totally agree about Noah grabbing Ross by the shirt. There was no other respectable response Ross could have other than a punch.

[@energystudent11]

I agree with this isn't the 70's and 80's. The young drivers are not Dale Sr., Yarborough's, Parsons, Waltip's, Allison's, Petty's and the list goes on. There's some good young talent but they seem to fade rather quickly. Just my thoughts.

[@tritontransport]

They fought all the time 🥹. It’s just that it wasn’t on camera. 1979 Daytona 500 just happened to be the first time it was captured on CBS on tv. That sort of stuff was common place. You didn’t use the car like a weapon like Bubba Wallace did to Kyle Larson. They just went into the infield after the race and beat the 💩 out of each other. That 1979 500 certainly wasn’t the first time Cale, Donnie or Bobby got in a fight after a race. Why do you think Bobby stopped back there? 🤔 he knew what was about about to go down so he stopped to help his brother

[@justlucky8254]

@@tritontransport yep. But family or not, nobody wants to see a third party involved in a fight between two guys. Especially the way it was back then, it was hard to imagine him stopping to get involved in his brother's business.

[@solardiyhobbyandrevies8118]

Let’s face it men used to race back in the early days

[@clydelourdes5754]

Idk jr..... These days everything is in a cookie cutter format. I dont lnow cuz im not involved but from being a fan of your family for years whst ive heard yalls camp say is from the "car of tomorrow" up till now the cars, frames and basic packages are all basically the same.. I think fine tuning is awesome but it aint enough to separate and more importantly SHOWCASE Engineering uniqueness from the driver's perspective lastly these guys aren't in a half of what your dad's left foot was I think it's detrimental to you to compare these new drivers to your father please never do it it hurts my ears and that's said with all the most respect thank you sir

[@ranndomundead9112]

seeing chastain run out there has brought some true pride in Nascar again for me. Dude can drive, aggressive af, and still manages to finish these races up front. This sport needs more KB's and RC's

[@SP-eo5kc]

Absolutely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@chasejordan22]

Oh god... Ross and KB in the same sentance?? How insulting to KB.

[@xavierjuno4572]

That's something people don't really appreciate about Chastain, for as boneheaded as his moves are, he always manages a top 5/10 no problem, so I have no idea why people expect him to change when his own driving gets him these kind of results

[@lordoftime1586]

​@@chasejordan22not really

[@chasejordan22]

@@lordoftime1586 Lol no supporting argument? KB could have quit 5 years ago and would be a first ballot hall of famer. Ross has two wins............ not in the same world....

[@StevenWHicks-ot9dv]

JR is the conscious of NASCAR. It needs him one day to run the sport.

[@anthonyprice8389]

The track house owner is a marketing genius for telling Ross to not back down.

[@jfkjunior2004]

We need Ross on the podcast

[@dandaniels4558]

We need Ross to learn how to drive a cup series car. He's just a wreck loose moron that has no respect for the rest of the field. Dale Earnhardt sent warnings to his competitors to lead follow or just get the hellnout of the way when they no he's faster. He took no prisoners when he knew his car was way faster and they were just blocking him over and over. He many times sent a message through his crew chief to tell the moron that was blocking him to stop blocking or he will move him.And of coarse many times the moron ahead was stubborn and was jealous of Dale Sr and kept his antics up and then got moved and then whined and pited because he got what he had coming to him.rusty wallace, bill Elliott, Darrel waltrip, Ricky Rudd, and Jeff bodine were a few of the morons that whined when they got moved because they were slower and wondered why he would move them. Duh your slower get the hell over or you got moved over. That's just good hard racing with clowns who weren't the driver Dale Sr was even when Dale was in a not so good car he still could drive the wheels off it better then the rest of the field. Ross is just a crash eating to happen because he doesn't have the ability Dale Sr had and tries to be like Dale Sr. NOT POSSIBLE when you don't have the ability to week your car like Dale did. Dale had respect for all drivers out there with him until they showed there stupid side and decided to block him.That just didn't sit well with SR and that's what we seen time and time again, Dale moving morons with less cars and abilities out of the way most of the time after being warned with a conversation between crew chiefs or with multiple taps to there back bumper until Dale became frustrated and moved the moron out of his way which Dale Sr haters called sheating and being overly aggressive. Nah, they all loved passing him off when they could and raced him harder then anyone in the field because they new how good he was and wanted to slow hom down and block him. They nomrally paid for there stupidity with a spin and sometimes into the wall of he was pissed off enough. Ross has alot to Learn he's just a guy trying to be Dale Sr that hasn't got the tools to be THE MAN. Noah Gragson had the chance to knock him down a couple notches and he blew that chance when he grabbed Ross' suit and dint immediately pop him a few times in the face.Noah kept threatening and got popped himself like a damn dummy. You better be prepared to fight upon grabbing whoever your mad at because that guy is expecting to get hit once you grab ahold of him. Lesson learned for Noah and expected reaction from Ross. I learned that when I was 14 yrs old from my much older cousin that when you are mad enough to fight a guy don't talk, you walk up and deck him and keep on popping him until there's no fight in him and he's learned a lesson. Your reputation as someone others don't want to mess with will spread quickly and for a long time. Now there's still thise morons that just have to teat you to see if its true. Ad there's still no talking or yelling it's just bam bam bam and that guy learns the hard way. I have a feeling Ross is going to find that quiet guy that gives him what he's got coming one day. Noah blew his chance and I guarentee he's thought about how and what he should have done differently and I also guarantee there's put crew guys that have told him dude stop talking and rail him over and over. Noah learned a valuable lesson. Talking does nothing with a guy like Riss Chastain. Let your hands do the talking and talk about it later.

[@StevenP727]

ASAP

[@hickkid3298]

Already been on when he drove the dbc car

[@bighand1530]

Yes

[@rufust33333333333333]

Please 😁 0:33

[@Theotherbabayaga]

I love Ross so much and all good things are coming his way. He’s such a down to earth person and not someone’s kid. It’s refreshing to see 🍉🏁

[@dianneledford3681]

Exactly what NASCAR needs to bring FANS back an everything That Was LOST when RULES Heats etc that Made NASCAR BORING for the FANS who Loved it when they Took Risk to make the WIN 🏆 and Bring that back instead of Crybabies like KB

[@chrissimes9445]

Oops! Back slap at Noah!

[@chrissimes9445]

(not somebody's kid...)

[@ebeth34]

Jr. Is spot on! Everybody else is being basic and trying to follow “rules” while Ross is challenging the narrative and is capitalizing. I love it! He’s the one reason why I’d start going back to NASCAR races right now. I used to go to Bristol every year and Kentucky. It stopped being entertaining and became boring. Also, JR never won a championship and is one of the most well known, favorite drivers in history. Same goes with Mark Martin. I would love to see them take Ross and run with it. He is different than everyone else. He’s the normal guy who landed it in the big time with nothing to lose and everything to gain.

[@ranndomundead9112]

Since Jeff stopped racing i had just kinda been watching races to watch them. Chastain has given me someone to root for again

[@bmunson76]

Dead honest, I grew up watching NASCAR. I stopped about 6-7 years ago. When I saw the move Ross made in Martinsville on the NEWS!…I haven’t missed a race since. And hasn’t disappointed yet. He just needs to win one soon.

[@chasejordan22]

Well I mean Jr won some of the biggest races and was Dales son. Mark won 40 races. Ross wont sniff 40 wins hes wayy too late to the party for that.

[@chasejordan22]

@@ebeth34 I keep seeing people calling Ross a watermelon farmer. No hes a watermelon farmers son. Hes a race car driver in his 20s. His father being a farmer does not make him a farmer.....

[@ebeth34]

@@chasejordan22 he farmed for his dad through his childhood into his teens. That’s why they say it. I understand where you’re coming from.

[@terryl4219]

Ross Chastain is 100% why I am again watching Nascar again. I like his style!

[@laughsalot6847]

Me 2!!

[@MidsouthCupSeries]

@Zachary Russell Dude did you not watch Kansas?

[@VladimirBlarp]

Jr said it well. In a nutshell, Ross is the next rockstar that this sport needs, even though so many fans won't admit it. From Yarborough to DW to Senior to Ernie Irvan, to Kurt and Kyle, and even to Logano. Ross is in that same category, and NASCAR needs him, we ALL need him.

[@johnw30]

Ross knew what he was doing, The first thing he did when Noah grabbed him was grab his right arm. We do need more people like Ross.

[@josephperault6168]

No that was the black guy. He was restricted before he got hit

[@MrKamino]

@@josephperault6168 Before Ross swings he his holding the dudes arm watch again.

[@maconmiles2057]

While Ross has talent, no the sport does not need more people that drives like a clown and wrecks people then pretends like he did nothing wrong. And just for the record Ross couldn't carry Dale Sr. jock strap.

[@DerrickRG]

@@josephperault6168 Wrong.

[@JustinCredible31]

Ross is about that life. As soon as Noah grabbed him all bets were off. I commend Ross for defending himself and showing others he's not one to be messed with. Grown men don't just go around grabbing other grown men by the collar without consequences.

[@Country-Marshal]

Spot on! First off, Ross didn't run Noah into the wall. He pushed up, never touched him. Noah had to decide, lift or keep goin. He brushed the wall on his own. Second on pit road Noah grabbed him. Ross told him to stop. He didn't. So he got hit. Ross stood his ground. So be it. Ross has talent and now, good equipment with a top level team. I agree with Junior, take the notoriety and use it to his advantage. Marketing, fan growth, and building his brand as an "ol' school" NASCAR star. I say go Ross Chastain. Forever a Dale Jr. Fan.

[@tobinharbeston3201]

You explain the best out of everything I've read,did not touch him that's racing,good point sir

[@donniebeadles7842]

This wasnt Ross's first time proving he would back it up. 5 or 6 yeaes ago after an xfinity race at bristol , Jeremy Clements ran up behind Ross in garage and grabbed Ross by shoulders and Ross absolutely spun around and blacked Clements eye. I mean dude left track with shades on to cover it up.

[@josephperault6168]

Noah will scrap too. His arm was grabbed by the black guy before he even got hit.

[@DerrickRG]

@@josephperault6168 Noah has no clue.

[@StevenCityChevy-Fusion]

Something happened between Chastain and Joey Gase about 6-7 years ago too. The video wasn't all that clear as to what happened, so who knows other than the one's that saw it. They did interview Gase afterwards and he seemed really upset. That could mean several things though as far as the outcome.

[@johnathanbryan9705]

@@josephperault6168 yeah but Ross had Noah’s arm first. Taking that option away. Ross knows how to fight, that was a fighting tactic.

[@StephenKimbrough]

@@DerrickRGyou’re crazy, Noah is kicking shitstains ass if he was able

[@DerrickRG]

Ross is a complete throwback to old school NASCAR. Those of us who pulled for the relatable Farm guy (Dale SR) are immediately interested in Ross. Noah is a fun dude, but at the end of it, he's just a spoiled rich frat kid that those of us who put in 50+ hours a week don't relate to or give a crap about.

[@laughsalot6847]

100% agree!!

[@robertcoleman7556]

That 1 car also has an ECR ENGINE same juice under the hood DE HAD

[@nolandavis9040]

Good point! Noah is unique he’s almost like a modern Tim Richmond

[@waynemangan7200]

Everyone in the comments, love him or hate him, seems to agree that it'd be fun to see Ross the Boss merch at the track, and Jr makes a good point, Ross should take advantage. We need more Happy Harvicks and Rowdy Shrubs.

[@anthonyprice8389]

I would buy a “Drop The Hammer” t-shirt for Ross!

[@gunnyusmcret817]

The Hammer

[@randymente80]

NASCAR needs drivers like Ross.. That's what stock car racing is all about live action. Ross is fun to watch and very smart.

[@cb5600]

I just wished he would stop saying sorry and just stand by his driving. If he said “Yeah I wreaked ya, get out of my way next time” that would be awesome.

[@lurkintomgaming397]

@@cb5600 see I would LOVE that

[@letsroll492]

He's a smart coward he punched and then ran from Noah hiding behind the security guard watch that video man I was disappointed to see him run like that

[@letsroll492]

When he gets slammed by other drivers for the rest of the year nobody's going to stand by him track house racing Wreckers or checkers??? We see which way he goes

[@MarkFtz]

After Dale Jr retired I have been trying to find a driver as my favorite. Last year, Ross Chastain became that driver. In my eyes, excluding dumping Brennan Poole, most of the incidents Ross has been involved in, are a product of aggressive driving. Agression is what it takes, and makes him my favorite. I think some drivers pass the blame on Ross for their own lack of car control. I believe Ross is what the sport is in dire need of. Go get 'em Ross 🍉🍉 (Watched my first NASCAR race with my dad. The 1979 Daytona 500. Been an Earnhardt fan since 1985). T-Shirt idea for Ross, "Watermelon Punch".

[@jrbamatex1949]

I had stopped watching NASCAR for the past few years. (Except for a few races Talladega, Daytona, Brickyard). Ross is THE reason I’m watching each weekend again. I’ll bet I’m not the only one.

[@frankiejenkins51]

And who still doesn't think that wall ride Ross pulled was the wildest thing even to happen. From game to real life moves.

[@ranndomundead9112]

give him a couple years hell be the first man to front flip mid race and drive off to win the race

[@CrewGuyPJ]

it was a bullshit move that even in the pixel world would get you dq''d

[@bmunson76]

I haven’t missed a race since. He’s the only reason I started watching again.

[@eljefe62]

@@CrewGuyPJ i.e., your driver didn't have the cajones to try it.

[@CrewGuyPJ]

@@bmunson76 awesome..nascar needs fans...they will take martians if it helps the sponsor roi, cause right now, it aint good.

[@chiefjustchief]

The path is definitely there for Ross to become NASCAR's "bad boy." I just think that he's a bit too unique for that to be his only angle though.

[@thomasnichols7664]

Ross made the punch heard around the world with F1 in Miami😂

[@patriotic80]

Their will only ever be one intimidator but ross definitely has that style of driving.

[@Wayne_Nero]

Only 1 intimidator bud!

[@RodimusPrime]

Except hes a loser, Dale had a dozen wins and a championship in far lesser equipment after the same amount of starts. Ross has 2, same as Bubba

[@eljefe62]

@@RodimusPrime How is he a loser? Ross' career is quite young. Bubbles has twice the years in cup as Ross. Make fair comparisons. Lame comment.

[@CocaineElvis]

@@eljefe62He’s literally got 2 wins.

[@DerrickRG]

@@CocaineElvis In 2 seasons of full time driving in competent cars. Dale Jr went 4 years without winning in HMS equipment, so piss off with that.

[@randallbokma2619]

I'm all on board with you JR!!! Let's walk through that door, love Ross more every week!!

[@StephenIsThor]

“Where’s his championships?” While talking to Dale JR is crazy when justifying popularity lol

[@Dealete420]

Like anyone cares about a your troll opinion.

[@renlysotherlover294]

AMEN!

[@jimneuenfeldt6521]

Noah stepped up to confront Ross based on everyone else’s complaining, and darn near learned the “Watermelon Crawl”

[@drkenleahlifechangersnatur9508]

YAY... BEST COMMENT SO FAR.

[@GrandpaShark]

I don't really understand your comment, but I have more respect for Noah than the so called "veteran drivers" that complain about Ross but do nothing.

[@yonh5350]

Ross makes me wanna watch every week

[@chopperguy16]

Jr. is spot on.

[@MattLundquistVW]

That punch was the best thing for NASCAR in the last 10 years. I am almost willing to watch it again.

[@RyanGallager]

NASCAR needs rivalries and every bit of ferocity that comes with it. That fire in their eyes!

[@JJA1987]

There is no new Intimidator - Only your father will forever be and hold that title

[@jimmygains5210]

I listened to the take from Kyle Petty. Wow it was spot on. We live in a society now where the kids have grown up with a mentality that everyone gets a trophy even the last place, because we don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings or make them feel left out. NASCAR is a win it or lose it all no one cares about second place and no one cares how first place got there as long as he gets there. We all have our drivers are favorites and we all have a villain that we blame everything on it’s been that way I know for the last 50 years that I’ve been watching NASCAR. Ross wants to win every week. I honestly don’t think it’s about the glory. I don’t think it’s about the money. I think it’s the competitive nature that has been instilled in him and I hope NASCAR embraces this new and exciting experience that he is bringing to NASCAR that had been dying for the last few years. And we all know that to be true whether we admit it or not. I applaud him and his sponsors and his fans that are sticking with him, and I hope to see him for many years to come because it’s good for NASCAR.

[@rocketman3d]

I think I have the perfect nickname for Ross Chastain like Dale Sr had as the Intimidator. Let’s call Ross “The Exterminator”!

[@midnightrambler3583]

This is so true! This is a golden opportunity for NASCAR to have a new aggressor. Something they have needed since Dale Sr. passed. This is there chance to renew interest and gain new fans.

[@melindaholloway5033]

I know the Chastain family and they are well known for being hard working and they raised their boys right. Ross gave Noah not one but TWO warnings before he "shut him up". Nobody likes a bully and Noah let the Hendrix drivers wind him up and he got stuck for it. Ross wants to win like a real racer should. If all you want is an exhibition then go to a car show! One thing even the ruler of Rome knew..." If the mob loves him the rulers can't do anything about it." People want REAL! ROSS is bringing back racing to Nascar! Thanks Ross!

[@dougmorris9107]

in the past few years, there haven't been any drivers that seemed like stars or inspired me to root for them. Nascar needs personalities and excitement to engage the fans. go Ross!

[@artnascar9748]

we haven't had anybody out there like Ross in a long time. That deal with Noah Ross gave him a whole Lane he panicked like bubba Wallace did last year with Kyle Larson. ✌️🇺🇸

[@MisledVision]

Literally exactly the same lol

[@aRedFrog]

Kevin Harvick was the guy you could always count on to knock somebody tf out. Hope Ross keeps this up!

[@djmohab2]

Fucking lol, Larson left nowhere near a lane. He even said Bubba was gonna have every right to be mad.

[@alandavis1245]

While im not a Chastain fan, he did nothing wrong Sunday. Noah was way out of line

[@ChadTriplett]

@@aRedFrog who have u ever seen Harvick punch?

[@dalemason9905]

As long as people are cheering or booing you're doing good. It's when the crowd is silent that you better worry. Ross should capitalize on what he has in regards to merchandise and his future financially.

[@TexasTaterSalad]

The funny thing is that Ross already has the branding with his “Melon Man” brand. It just needs to be spread more

[@johnsolimine1164]

The last lap pass on Hamlin gained Ross the focus of attention... Ross is a showman... Dale Jr. is right.

[@randywilde5988]

I have a suggested new name for CHASTAIN because of his aggressive winning driving style like Dale Senior (THE INTIMIDATOR) and Richard Petty (THE KING). Here it is "THE ANTAGONIZER". Chastain will be a CHAMPION at some point in his career. Probably sooner than later.

[@nc240coupe]

Gaayyy

[@xavierjuno4572]

And even if he doesn't, he'll probably be remembered more than most

[@TerminalSports45]

I prefer 'Melonator' personally :B

[@rebelsoul5980]

"CHASTAINED" "Ross The Boss"

[@JSkunk3223]

Everyone wants to talk about the punch, but nobody wants to talk about the fact that he took the punch and was getting ready to throw a much bigger punch because anytime a man takes a punch, his fight flight kick your ass kicks in and he’s gonna throw a much bigger one back so I would be leery of the next person who had to be in front of Noah ‘s next punch

[@GrandpaShark]

I think the next one will be on the track. Everyone saw how Denny put Ross in the wall at Phoenix. That would have been fine if he hadn't gloated about it on his podcast. Noah can do the same & just say he got loose underneath him.

[@copenkelley1466]

You are absolutely right Dale. I have been waiting for someone to say this

[@spondal1]

I like hearing my all time favorite driver saying he hopes my current favorite driver uses this to push himself to new highs.

[@andyd5492]

Trackhouse is focused and prepared as an organization. He knew to hold Gragson's right arm when he got grabbed. Ross is an aggressive driver but he does have talent and a good team, too. Last years Martinsville move makes him an Einstein compared to everyone else. Nascar needs him and his team.

[@davids5006]

Instinct

[@coreygillum12]

Jr nailed it. Ross and Trackhouse has the ball. now run with it.

[@section8usmc53]

Dale is right on the money here. Dale Earnhardt, Kevin Harvick, Jimmy Spencer, Robby Gordon, etc. Where are their modern counterparts? How about the other side? Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth, Jeff Burton, Jeff Gordon, Bobby & Terry Labonte. ...and the "others" that fall in between that were still loaded with personality. Ward Burton, Kenny Schrader, Sterling Marlin, Harry Gant, or Alan Kulwicki... The ruffians and the firestarters. The mostly clean, principled drivers. The guys in between. Each group was full of personality. So what the hell happened ?! Most of these guys have the personality of a wet paper bag today. They all have the same demeanor. Give the same carbon copy interview. Where's Jaws? Smoke? Juan Pablo Montoya? There's a handful of these guys total today, and it wasn't until just the past couple years that I really noticed it after the last wave of drivers retired. I couldn't place what was missing. Well, personality of some sort. What personality? How about A personality to start. Be funny. Be a dumbass. Be curmudgeon. Be and instigator. Be who the hell you would be with your friends. Speak your mind a little. Something. Anything. A post race interview shouldn't sound like a post baseball game interview that ended 1-0 in the 17th inning where half the fans left in the 11th. Racing is fast. Adrenaline. Excitement. How can a 20 something hop out of a racecar and seem bored out of his mind? Sorry for the book and rant, but damn.

[@bowtiebulldog]

These strong personalities are what will bring NASCAR back...not gimmicks, playoffs, dirt races, etc. but genuine hard racing among passionate competitors and the offtrack "discussions" that it will bring with it.

[@chrishuddleston7652]

I think now would be a great time leading up to the all-star race to have Ross as a guest on the Dale Jr Download.

[@sorenauto2525]

As a Floridian I love Chastain! He is slowly becoming my new favorite and i’ve been a fan of all of Hendrick Motorsports for over 10 years now! Would love to see Ross on this podcast since Ross said he wouldn’t show up on Denny’s 💀

[@donnariccelli3538]

Track house would have to hire a PR person. And you're right. Now's the time to do it. But he needs to win more.

[@andrewesau51]

He will win. He's got the speed and he's always up front at the end of races, and as we have seen he's not afraid to do what it takes to win. That's a recipe for success. He will win more.

[@crdover3436]

Good points from you both. We can call Ross the Melonator! 😁❤️🏁

[@jolenew9595]

That's hilarious!

[@Brandon4Christ]

😂😂😂😂 melonator

[@viper29ca]

What could Noah have done to not get punched? Don't grab a guy by the shirt and blame him for your own wreck. Ross didn't touch him, Noah wrecked himself, and got a poke to the chops for his trouble when he tried to blame it on Ross.

[@alan-kb4ji]

That 1979 moment Is what put NASCAR on the map! Let them fight It's emotions at It's best.

[@rickyhazel1030]

Ross needs a "PISS OFF WHINERS" T-shirt because that is exactly what I see everyone else doing, whining, Ross has a steering wheel and 3 pedals, but so does everyone else. Jr pointing out the similarities of Ross to Dale Sr. is absolutely on point, fans seem to remember Dale Sr. as benevolent, but he was known as "Dirty Dale" where i watched the race, I was never an Earnhardt fan [outside of Kerry and Jeff (always respected both Sr. and Jr. for different reasons but definitely not a fan on the track)] so I'm not blinded, he was probably more aggressive than Ross and ruffled way more feathers, Texas Terry certainly wasn't the the only persons cage he tried to rattle. As far as Noah, charity boxing match anyone.

[@kellyjones334]

Ross owns most of them drivers. He gets close to them ans they start to choke. He left Noah a lane and a half and Noah drove it into the wall. Ross never touched him until the right hook on pit road.

[@TonyWud]

Agree 100%. He's in their head.

[@SKLFKR88]

Sitting there as a kid watching the infield fight I can still hear my dad saying "that's gonna go over very good" boy was he wrong!!!

[@timmummert63]

Hey Mike. Dale never won a Cup Championship and was the most popular drive for how many years?

[@CrewGuyPJ]

and why was that?

[@cjoin83]

Mike literally mentioned that in the clip, did you even watch the whole thing?

[@CrewGuyPJ]

you didnt answer my question either. and no I didnt, I dont agree with Jr on this one.

[@timmummert63]

Shore I posted my comment before he said that. PJ - Why did Dale never win a Cup Championship? You could argue that the focus was on JJ? My opinion is that there were some very good drivers/teams during his career and it just never all came together at once. Why was he the fan favorite for years? Probably because he was able to become his own person and people just relate to him.

[@CrewGuyPJ]

@@timmummert63 I didnt comment on no cship ( I should have been more on point, sorry) ..why was June the most popular driver ( aside from that sham mcdonalds voting when elliott was the perennial most popular driver) June got the vast majority of his dads fans. June could drive/ race...unlike the NON everyone else is discussing. ;)

[@joeschrecker6901]

While he is slowly direct and indirect wrecking the entire field through many races in a group of many races. Eventually every driver has a bad day during the season. But good ol’ Ross. That’s how is wins points standing

[@user-mm1se7gy7e]

Spoken like a true Joey Linguini fan 😊

[@CrewGuyPJ]

@@user-mm1se7gy7e Ill give crashtain one thing..he doesnt have to have daddy do his fighting like joey lugnut did.

[@firewoodblake1243]

Ross has reignited my love for NASCAR.

[@mattmiller1790]

“The man of pain, Ross Chastain” Mental, emotional, and even physical

[@steventweed3599]

Dale? I'm not short changing your dad. I'm looking at the similarities. I was a teenager when your dad was young in Cup. Here's what I gather.....Chastain is EXACTLY where your dad was at with the Wranger sponsorship. One Tough Customer. Of course he went on to become "The Intimidator". Ross isn't their yet but he's getting their fast, and the same as with your dad, it's the other drivers helping him. Does ANYONE think Dale Senior wouldn't have knocked hell out of Gragson? He'll, they've tried to wreck Chastain, Denny included. He just gathered it up and kept on. I know who that reminds me of.

[@Landmasters]

I'd say they need to push marketing that makes Ross out to be relentless and unpredictable, but find a way to retain the melon branding he already has. You create something that defines his personality and racing mentality while keeping attention to his rural farming upbringing and you've got lightning in a bottle. Assuming Busch signs with him after Harvick leaves, make him "wheel" an RV in the wilderness into a pond to go fishing, make him plow a watermelon field with his car to promote a melon flavor like the apple, rename Busch for a week since ROSSSSSSSSS still works in the marketing, so on and so forth. Have him drive his car with an army of CGI moose, have him wheel into Advent Health and use his car battery to power the entire building, there's so much to be done Even if he doesn't win the championship, he has shown that was no fluke leading the standings by a wide margin. He's locked in with Trackhouse "til his beard turns gray", all he needs to do is continue building that brand along with Pitbull and sponsors will flood in to give him a car that can put up double digit win seasons seeing as he can compete at any track for the win.

[@Theotherbabayaga]

Genius

[@drkenleahlifechangersnatur9508]

AWESOME... BUSCH NEEDS TO HIRE YOU

[@michaelxr2460]

I’d say maybe farming angle but not specifically melon or watermelon. Definitely no holds barred, in your face aggressive racer.

[@joemarucci3917]

I absolutely love JRS idea.. Ross has already shown that he's a very interesting driver so why not capitalize on it!!! ROSS, JR... I'LL MAKE THE T SHIRTS AND HATS!! I GOTTA GUY!!! LOL

[@bigdaddydave3341]

The way that Ross mocked Noah after the punch by waving and smiling and saying something about "That should heal.", I believe he is ready and able to take on the bad boy role. Now the only question is whether or not he is willing. And if Dale Sr. was the Intimidator, Ross's nickname should be the agitator.

[@tommymaw9672]

Ross "The Hammer" Chastain...nuff said

[@mitchpayne555]

Yep and needs Hammer Time across the front bumper.

[@bradsanders407]

"Nuff said" what are we in 2005?

[@piedpiper8355]

@@bradsanders407 Deez nuts..

[@JorgeGenaro.]

@@mitchpayne555 This is perfect. Omjeezus

[@ranndomundead9112]

@@bradsanders407 im so 2008, youre so 2000 and late

[@lisachaney7504]

Don't even put him in a category with dale Sr no comparison

[@kphw13]

Did you watch the clip? Dale wasn't putting Ross into a category as Dale Sr. He was using how Dale Sr became known as the Intimidator as an example of how Ross can take advantage of the circumstances

[@chainraiderdiscgolf]

Let them fight! It shows the behind the scenes that everyone loves and it also shows the emotions that come with racing.

[@joshgibson1222]

Jr is 100% correct! I'm glad someone is coming out and saying it.

[@mikeleblanc3393]

We can criticize Ross and Noah all day long, but what about the other drivers like, Larson and Elliot who are instigating this. Didn't Noah mention Elliot in his post fight comments? And didn't Elliot make an on camera comment while passing Noah after the fight? Do they not have the fortitude to go and confront Ross, so they have to get the "Rookie" bully type to go fight their battle for them. I love that Noah went and confront him about the on track incident, we need more of this too! Ross is bringing recognition back to the sport and I love it!

[@thomastanner8491]

Best and most honest podcast I have seen in a long time! He no intimidator but he damn sho a racer!!

[@johnhopkins6565]

What makes one an (not 'the') intimidator is the ability to change how one drives their racecar by being in their rear view mirror. When drivers saw the black 3 in their mirror, they tensed up. They changed their approach, they gave pause. I think drivers today change their strategy when Ross is behind them, and that is awesome.

[@seanwilson9117]

Poor Mike not understanding that they've made the championship essentially meaningless at this point.

[@garyjackson3531]

The rules are the same for everyone. If you win under those rules you are no less champion than anyone else.

[@RowingFrontal5]

@@garyjackson3531 if the rules are different how are they the same?

[@braydenfletcher8159]

​@@RowingFrontal5 Because everyone is playing by exactly the same rules

[@CrewGuyPJ]

@@braydenfletcher8159 go ask some insiders, they will tell you a different story.

[@braydenfletcher8159]

@@CrewGuyPJ There are conspiracies as far back as NASCAR goes. Definitely not a new phenomenon

[@dianeh.3327]

Yes it has found its new intimidator. Ross lives in their heads. I love what Ross does. Nascar has missed this.

[@MRGandee]

I don’t think that made anyone afraid of Ross. If you’re going to step up, prepare to throw fists.

[@mattj6676]

Love him or hate him, Chastain is the only driver bringing any excitement to the sport. The image of two of the best drivers sitting back and letting the rookie take care of business they've been complaining about for years is exactly the problem with NASCAR today.

[@donholmes4476]

I’m not some internet commenter eirther! I’ve signed that wavier, took the dry course, strapped in 7pt. Waited for oil/temp to hit 220 🔥then fired up and drove KB18 NOS car around Fontana on a damp track! NASCAR ain’t no joke🏁🏁 These amazing drivers make it look so easy, but it’s insane way to make a living!

[@DaMiKo79]

When you talk it’s raw, I love the authenticity of it. Ross the boss, he’s on a mission don’t get in his way. Bring confrontation, expect more than you’ll bring. He’s not my driver but I can’t knock the guy either, I say keep on keepin on. Most talked about driver

[@kevinlesch9656]

Yes yes yes. From 'watermelon man' to 'riding the wall' to 'dropping the hammer' Ross definitely has the opportunities. I drifted away from NASCAR a little over the last 10+ years but two things are bringing me back -- North Wilkesboro and the watermelon man riding the wall!

[@craignesbitt7856]

I agree that Trackhouse and Ross need to market his on track persona like what happened with Sr. He has brought eyes outside of NASCAR/stock car racing to the sport with his actions on the track. Look at the "Wall Crawl" at Martinsville that got him into the championship race.

[@billwallenstein3387]

People have forgotten; “if you ain’t rubbin, you ain’t racin” Drop the Hammer!

[@dillanhamilton]

Dale Jr makes good points to popularizing the sport again and Ross has definitely helped. Between his run ins with people, Martinsville, and Noah. Mike was right on them muzzling Noah. They should let them fight it out a few seconds before breaking it up and not just let one person land a punch

[@marceawalters3900]

Fans LOVE a fight! Went to Talladaga in 2000 & the best was my deceased husband seeing Dale Sr. blow the doors off at the end & win.

[@ajconnors193]

Ross is the show every week, and It’s so nice to see

[@robertkoenig1187]

Excellent job on insight of what is going on right now. I'm glad that you pointed out the similarities between your dad and Ross's driving styles and attitudes. As always, love your takes.

[@TheTopGun920]

I don't want fighting in Nascar either because it can come off as looking cheesy like WWE, but Ross was right. You grab me like that, you're getting cracked.

[@jgox2]

Jr. is absolutely correct. What NASCAR needs is characters. It needs back stories and good guys versus bad guys. NASCAR isn’t totally in the race car business, it needs to be in the entertainment business.

[@krismc2476]

Never ever say anyone is like the Intimidator unless you say Dale Earnhardt.

[@stevea6936]

I'll always like to see as a fan an occasional brawl this always happens at short tracks so why not drivers showing their passion or guarding their space which is exactly what Ross Chastain was doing at the Nascar cup level. I'm 61 and my original live introduction to NASCAR was in fact that 1979 Daytona 500 when all of us new englanders were all trapped by a massive snowstorm and we had nothing else to watch but that event on TV perfect timing for NASCAR. As far as the toughest NASCAR driver in history that is Cale Yarbrough hands down. A little bit of Cale Yarborough history. He survived a lightning strike, fought a bear, survived a faulty parachute skydive, was an excellent football player last but not least a Golden Gloves amateur boxer. Ad that to his 83 NASCAR victories , his championships and his three times in a row Daytona 500 wins and you have the toughest NASCAR driver of all time and for that matter one of the toughest race drivers of all time bar none. Nobody past or present would ever make the mistake of messing with Cale Yarborough

[@xavierjuno4572]

Wow no wonder the called him "Old Hickory"

[@shelleyking8450]

Mike is crazy asking "what if Ross doesnt win a championship?" WTF, Mike? He finished SECOND IN POINTS in his first year! Jr. is right, Ross is the "new face" NASCAR needs. He has skill, he takes risks, he runs great, and he takes crap from NOBODY. BTW, WHAT in the HELL was Noah doing stuffing it in there last-lap on a top 5 car when HE was 5 laps down?

[@oneworldonegoal17]

Junebug is right - it's a marketing campaign needed to be capitalized on - nowadays it can come from a fan nickname on social media! Someone below on here said call him the Melonator - I love that!!! ❤️🏁💣 M in Miami 🍉

[@sleezyimpalass]

Let’s get Ross on the show. I think it would be a great show!

[@GraysightRPG]

Ross Chastain is Ernie Irvan at Morgan-McClure and Ricky Rudd rolled into one and the fans love it.

[@debra2438]

Ross has class. I like his driving😊

[@glennpiller9417]

Gragson drove him self in to the wall !!!! He deserves no other recognition. Glad he caught a right.

[@Dealete420]

FACT!!

[@letsroll492]

Why did Ross run after he swung I mean he didn't exactly do anything except hide behind the security guard after that and I don't root for a coward Ross is such a wuss

[@user-mm1se7gy7e]

Drove his car into wall , then drove his bowl cut head into a hard right !

[@glennpiller9417]

@@user-mm1se7gy7e LMAO

[@glennpiller9417]

@@letsroll492 he was trying to get his arm out of the security guard s arm

[@joshpittman9598]

"Not a driver in the field that will step at Ross" ..... Enter Ryan Newman "hold my Beer"

[@GregOnYoutube]

Best Dale Jr. Download EVER!