What makes him the most popular would probably be yes his last name, but he's pretty good looking to. That helps.

Yes those who do throw beer cans do get arrested and banned from tracks. Jr. himself has said that he does not like it when fans do that, but he can't control what people do in the stands. While I agree with your comment on drivers being compared, my words were directed to why aren't those drivers getting recognition/coverage/attention you were talking about. I have to disagree with you on Kyle, I just don't see it.
BTW, did you think Newman was going to be awesome after his rookie season? Honest question...