Episode 22: "Life After Earnhardt..."

We discuss Dale's decision to retire, how it affected us, what his retirement means for NASCAR, our favorite Dale Jr. victories and which drivers Dale Jr. fans can turn to once he's gone.Goodbye, Dale Jr.Dale Earnhardt Jr. announced his retirement this week after 18 years in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. It came as a shock to the NASCAR community, but the decision wasn't entirely unexpected after a series of concussions over his career and a newly formed family have caused some to question if he should hang it up. Earnhardt's journey has been unlike any other in the history of NASCAR. His last name burdened him with unrealistic expectations since day one. He lost his father to a last-lap crash in the 2001 Daytona 500 and has since received the type of fame and attention that can ruin a man. Yet, somehow, he has remained humble and genuine through it all. He's widely regarded as one of the most "real" and honest athletes of all time. What you see is what you get with Dale Jr., and that has made him more beloved than a name ever could.Earnhardt's last race will be at Homestead-Miami Speedway on November 19, 2017. Better get those tickets ASAP if you want them. In this episode...This week's episode of Lug Nuts and Beer isn't about the great race at Bristol. We discuss Dale's decision to retire, how it affected us, what his retirement means for NASCAR, our favorite Dale Jr. victories and which drivers Dale Jr. fans can turn to once he's gone. Plus, our picks are in for the Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond International Raceway.