Second place AMPS up JR Nation

Dale Earnhardt Jr. led 17 laps near the end of the Martinsville race last Sunday afternoon. JR Nation sat back, holding their breath with hope that this race would be his to win. 

With five laps to go, Kevin Harvick snuck up behind the 88 AMP Energy Hendrick Chevrolet, found a spot to pass and moved on to win his second consecutive race this season.

Earnhardt Jr. expressed his disappointment, but explained he did not want to bump Harvick for the win. A lot of Junior fans have mentioned that their driver is being too hard on himself for the second-place finish. After all, Dale Jr. stayed true to himself; it's not his style to bump and run. Integrity prevailed.

Would bumping Harvick to get ahead have helped Earnhardt Jr.? What if Harvick spun out, or whit if Harvick fought harder and had spun Earnhardt Jr. out?

JR Nation is not all too disappointed in their driver. Now, more than ever, fans are AMPED up and ready for a win this coming Saturday in Texas.

Earnhardt Jr. won his first Busch (now known as Nationwide) race and his first Cup race at Texas. After his first Cup victory, his father pushed aside reporters to go hug his son, which is now the most famous father/son photo of the Earnhardt family.

In the last 11 seasons, Earnhardt Jr. has finished 10 times in the top 12. He also won the pole at the spring race in 2008. It's safe to say that Texas is his track.

He's been driving better this year. With the help of his new crew chief Steve Letarte, confidence is higher, attitude is better and he's been voted most improved driver by NASCAR's Race Hub.

The Most Popular Driver is now eighth in points for the Chase. Does he still stand a chance in making the cut this fall? The potential is there.

There is still time to (daily) vote him into the ALL STAR Race happening May 21st in Charlotte. You can also help win his 9th consecutive Most Popular Driver Award by voting daily.