Jimmie Johnson delivered his fifth consecutive NASCAR title on Sunday with a second place finish at Homestead-Miami Speedway in the season finale. While the race's top honors went to Carl Edwards, it was Johnson, who received the most attention.
Johnson accomplished more than just a fifth title. He also became the first driver in the history of the 7-year old Chase for the Sprint Cup championship to overcome a points deficit and take home the title. Going into Sunday's race, Johnson was 15 points behind Denny Hamlin. But with the second place honor and Hamlin's 14th place finish, Johnson was able to do enough to reclaim the top spot in the overall standings.
"We had a great year, we won the most races that we ever won, we contended like we've never contended before and just circumstances took us out of this one," Hamlin said.
In the Winner's Circle spirits were considerably brighter. "I've always told you the first championship, the first win, that stuff has meant the most to me. This one, I think this takes the lead," Johnson told the AP immediately following the race. "It's not that the other Chases weren't competitive. We were stronger in the previous two Chases, at least, but this one, I am just so proud."
Were you watching on Sunday? What were your overall impressions of the race? And what are your predictions for next year? Will Jimmie Johnson make it six in a row? Will Hamlin come back strong to contend? Or will there be a new face waiting in the wings looking to take the Cup? Share your thoughts with us below.
