Ryan Newman said he was shocked to learn Dale Earnhardt Jr. would miss this weekend's Sprint Cup race at New Hampshire because of concussion-like symptoms. He also understands just how tough this call must have been for Earnhardt to make.
After all, when it comes to the Chase for the Sprint Cup, Earnhardt and Newman are in essentially the same position. Neither has a win. Newman is two points ahead of Earnhardt in the standings. Both were in position to get into the field on points, with or without a win.
Since Thursday's announcement that Earnhardt would miss the race, competitors applauded him for putting his health first.