Gordon: NASCAR needs some rivalries to stir it up

HAMPTON, Ga. (AP) -The drivers keep saying how much the racing has improved in the opening month of the NASCAR season, yet there's all sorts of evidence that defies their optimism.

Television ratings? Down significantly. Empty seats? Plenty of those.

And look who's won two of the first three races: Jimmie Johnson, the guy who's captured an unprecedented four straight Sprint Cup championships. Johnson's fast start has further dampened enthusiasm for a sport that once appeared on the verge of carving out its place among the Big Three of American sports: NFL, NBA and Major League Baseball.

Jeff Gordon says NASCAR needs some rivalries, but adds that it's hard for anyone to stir up much animosity for Johnson.