Garage Chatter: Talladega 2

PPC to announce Cup team Tuesday: PPC Racing is set to announce the formation of a NEXTEL Cup series team this Tuesday in a press conference at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

PPC will run a Cup car with driver John Andretti, Sunoco is one of the primary sponsors. The car will make its debut at Lowe's Motor Speedway this October.

Protests planned for Talladega: A group of minority race fans are planning a protest at Talladega Superspeedway this weekend to voice their discontent with the lack of minorities participating in the sport.

The Alabama State Troopers and the National Guard have been out in full force to dissuade a potential riot.

NASCAR officials and several race teams have been told to avoid the infield this weekend.

Ward shopping his services: Garage insiders say that Ward Burton and NetZero have been shopping around looking for another race team for Burton to run with next season. Sadly, the low value of the NetZero sponsorship has not garnered a lot of takers.

Meanwhile, the No. 0 team has been speaking with several drivers including Robby Gordon who is not expected to be resigned to his deal in the No. 31 Chevy at RCR.

Chad Blount to attempt to qualify a fourth Penske car this weekend: Chad Blount will attempt to qualify a fourth Penske Racing Cup car this weekend at Talladega.

This furthers the speculation that Brendan Gaughan is dangerously close to being bounced out of that ride.

Craven to drive No. 11 Gibbs car at Talladega: Veteran driver Ricky Craven will pilot the No. 11 Gibbs Racing Chevy this weekend at Talladega on a one race deal.

Originally, JJ Yeley was set to drive the No. 11 this weekend, but concerns about his ability to run a superspeedway race prompted Gibbs to hire a series veteran to handle this weekend.