NASCAR fans wish is granted

OK, I'll say it.  NASCAR's playoff system had become as exciting as Dave Clawson's 2008 offense.

Jimmie Johnson has the best car, best crew, best technology (and yes, he can drive well too)... and was about to coast to a record fourth NASCAR series championship.

But on the third lap at Texas, Johnson's 48 car was seriously damaged after Sam Hornish Jr.'s 77 car got loose and drifted into him.  Johnson hit both the outside and inside walls, would miss 129 laps, and finish 38th.

The beneficiary is his teammate, the long-time suffering Mark Martin, who is still searching for his first championship at NASCAR's highest level.

With three races to go, Johnson's lead was 184 points.  Now, with two races left, the lead is down to 73 points.

It's still a long shot.  Phoenix and Homestead-Miami are tracks JJ likes to drive around, and there is a lot of ground Martin needs to gain.

But at least NASCAR fans have a reason to watch as the 2009 season comes to a close.