NASCAR Sprint Cup Series: Destiny for Dale Earnhardt Jr. to Win at Michigan?

As NASCAR's top dogs get ready for the Sprint Cup Series at Michigan International Speedway, a lot of eyes are on Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Earnhardt currently sits third in the Sprint Cup point standings—only 10 behind current leader Carl Edwards. Earnhardt heads to Michigan looking more prime for a win than he ever has the last three years.

Remember, it was Michigan where Earnhardt broke through in 2008 to break a 76-race winless streak not to mention it was on Father's day.

Earnhardt finds himself in the same situation he did in 2008 at this time in the Sprint Cup season. Earnhardt was top three in points heading into Michigan and scored a much needed victory.

After the only two practice sessions on Friday, Earnhardt sat fifth and 9th—two of the best practice sessions he's had all year. The one thing we all know his car has, is speed—something Earnhardt hasn't known in a very long time.

He commented about the speed after The Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor speedway. "We have a lot of speed in these cars and that makes a big difference," said Earnhardt. Speed added with consistency is what has Earnhardt in the top three in points and makes him a real championship contender.

Could Earnhardt be destined to win at Michigan this year? He has 400 miles to do it. Starting 15th in tomorrow's race should not be a problem, considering he hasn't qualified in the top 10 but two times. Earnhardt is used to fighting all race to gain that track position and you can bet, if he has clean air in front of his race car, he wont give it up without a dog fight.

Jr. Nation would sure be at their peak if Earnhardt drove his Amp Energy, National Guard Chevy to victory lane. And so would NASCAR.