The Outside Groove Least Popular Driver Award

The Outside Groove is pleased to announce its sponsorship, organization, and catering of Nascar's newest award: The Least Popular Driver. For years Nascar has bestowed an award upon the driver most beloved by fans (and Darrell Waltrip). The Outside Groove, however, has a different approach.
When we say "Least Popular Driver", we're not talking about drivers you hate. Think about it--you might not like Kyle Busch, but you know who he is, and you get mad if he wins. We're talking about people you really DON'T care about. These are the guys who redefine mediocre--they're the Minnesota Twins of Nascar, successful enough to keep their jobs, but nowhere near electrifying. There's only one requirement for the award: The driver must have competed in at least 10 races as of Dover. Also, rookies were left out by way of coddling. Best of all, YOU vote for the winner! (more info below). And now, the nominees, chosen by a comprehensive committee of the voices in my head:

Jeff Burton: Yes, he's been around for years, contended for a championship, and campaigns regularly for safety initiatives. But when was the last time you saw a Jeff Burton fan? Being sponsored by Nextel's biggest competitor doesn't help to get much exposure either.

Casey Mears: He gets a ride with a major team, he has impressive lineage, and what does he have to show for it? A runner-up finish at Daytona and a bad haircut. When you're too boring for Target, something is definately wrong.

Jeff Green: Here's a guy best known for getting into arguments with Kevin Harvick. Other than that, his career highlight is driving the Cartoon Network car. Its like they took one great driver, then split him three ways into the Green brothers.

Scott Riggs: By all accounts (my own included) Scott's a great guy. But at any point have you thought to yourself, "Yeah, go Riggs!" or "Damn you Riggs!"? Its usually more along the lines of "Oh, that's the guy who missed Daytona."

Brian Vickers: Sure he's put together some strong runs, and sure he had that spot on The Daily Show. But he seems to be the "base model" for Nascar's crop of young guns.

Dave Blaney: Seriously, how does this guy keep getting jobs?

Jeremy Mayfield: Funny commercials aside, this guy surprised us all by making the Chase in 2004. Then he surprised us again by making it in 2005. When sustained above-averageness is surprising, something's wrong.

Scott Wimmer: Hurtling toward Tim Fedewa-like obscurity.

Travis Kvapil: Besides a knack for chosing teams on the verge of bankruptcy, hasn't done much of anything to excite.


And that's the list. Send in a comment to this article with YOUR choice for The Least Popular Driver from the list above. The winner will be announced later this week. Remember--voting is keen!