by Lee Spencer

Around the track

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• Michigan schedule
• Michigan practices

Watch:

• Video Central

Picture perfect:

• Action at Watkins Glen

Read all about it:

• Dale Jr: Changes needed in NASCAR
• Vickers edges Martin for Cup pole

Analysis:

• White: Chasers feel the heat
• Spencer: Drivers to watch at Michigan

Allmendinger will take over for Elliott Sadler behind the wheel of the No. 19 Dodge at Gillett Evernham Motorsports next season.

Despite GEM extending Elliott Sadler's contract earlier this year, Allmendinger proved over the last five races of the season that he was better suited for the ride. Allmendinger, 27, outran Sadler with an average finish of 16.4 behind the wheel of GEM equipment compared to the veteran's finish of 31.8.

Sadler's possibilities are rumored to include the No. 41 Chevrolet at Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing or the No. 77 Dodge at Penske Racing should Sam Hornish Jr. replace Helio Castroneves in the IRL IndyCar Series.

Allmendinger posted two top 10s in 21 starts with Red Bull Racing this season after qualifying for 17 races with the start-up operation as a rookie in 2007. He will join Kasey Kahne in the flagship No. 9 GEM Dodge and newcomer Reed Sorenson, who will pilot the No. 43 Dodge following the imminent announcement of the merger between owner George Gillett and Richard Petty.

And speaking of Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing, FOXSports.com has learned that Raybestos Rookie of the Year recipient Regan Smith will drive for Furniture Row Racing in 2009.