2007 Preseason No. 2: Jimmie Johnson

No. 48 Lowe’s Chevy

2007 Spin
Last season, we asked if all the near-misses this team had endured had taken their toll. Could Team Lowe’s win the Cup after being so painfully close on four straight occasions? Jimmie Johnson and his team sure answered that question. Of course, it was always a matter of when, and not if. Now it is a question of how many.

All the pieces remain in place for this bunch. Is it a stretch to believe the Lowe’s team could go back-to-back? Knaus, Johnson and Lowe’s are inked to deals that will keep them together at Hendrick through the 2010 season. It’s absurd to think a team in its prime can’t win another Cup — if not two — in the next four years.

The Hendrick organization shouldn’t have too much of a problem with the Car of Tomorrow, either. A deep company with the resources and manpower to match the desire is a potent recipe. Throw in a dash of talent (Johnson) and watch chef Chad Knaus work his magic in the kitchen.

Speaking of Knaus, he and Johnson comprise the deadliest crew chief/driver combo on the circuit. Their greatest strength is relaying information throughout the race, resulting in solid top 15 runs on even the gloomiest of days.

While it’s hard to imagine another dream season like the one witnessed last year, don’t expect much of a dropoff. Johnson’s ability to run well on most any type of track will keep this bunch near the top of the heap well into the Chase.

Having good friend and new teammate Casey Mears on board at Hendrick Motorsports will only help Johnson as well. The only red flag to look for is the dreaded slump. Team Lowe’s has dug itself in holes before, and while Johnson was able to climb out of one last season, it is nearly impossible to duplicate such a run.

Fantasy Stall
Looking at Checkers: Virtually anywhere. Plate tracks and intermediates stand out.
Pretty Solid Pick: Again, most any place.
Good Sleeper Pick: The defending Nextel Cup champion is not considered a sleeper anywhere.
Runs on Seven Cylinders: Road courses, if anywhere.
Insider Tip: Fantasy gold here. Use him as a No. 1 for any track save the roadies.

2006 Performance Rankings
Flat Track Ranking: 4th — Best Finish: 1st, Indianapolis and Las Vegas.
Intermediate Track Ranking: 1st — Best Finish: 2nd, Atlanta, California, Lowe’s (2) and Texas.
Plate Track Ranking: 5th — Best Finish: 1st, Daytona and Talladega.
Road Course Ranking: 12th — Best Finish: 10th, Infineon
Short Track Ranking: 6th — Best Finish: 1st, Martinsville

Read Jimmie Johnson's entire preview in the 2007 Athlon Sports Racing Magazine