Video: New Carl Edwards ESPN Commercial Is Awkward

In general, I like ESPN’s “Nothing Beats First Place” commercials (such as Jimmie Johnson’s “Pricklebear” ad). And while the Carl Edwards version – which debuted Sunday – has a few chuckles, it’s also a bit uncomfortable.

See for yourself:

Did you hear that? Edwards’ best friend, “Bob,” is in poor health and Edwards is waiting to eat him.

It’s obviously a joke, but many people who see it will connect “Bob” to Bob Osborne, the former Edwards crew chief who resigned due to a combination of health problems and the No. 99 team’s struggles this season.

Bad timing, to say the least. ESPN couldn’t have changed the name of the character to something aside from “Bob?”