Hmm, how did Chase Elliott get the pole in 2016 his first full year in Cup?
How did Danica get the pole in 2013 her first full year in Cup?
How did Jeff Gordon get the pole in 2015 he last full year in Cup?
How did Jimmie Johnson get the pole in 2002 his first full year in Cup?
How did Loy Allen get the pole his first and almost full year (with Hooters sponsorship) the year after Kulwicki died?
How did Richard Petty win his 200th race with President Regan in attendance?
How did Earnhardt Jr win the Daytona July race the same year his father passed away? With Waltrip 2nd too.
These are/were all feel good stories for NASCAR. Why would I assume otherwise for this coming race?
I realize some of this would be next to impossible to manufacture, but pole positions where a hundredth of seconds makes a difference can be fabricated. A few extra ponies under the hood also never hurt anyone.