Winternationals: Car counts up?

NHRA says its entries for the 49th Winternationals are up, but the list does not include the Caterpillar Top Fuel dragster driven by "Hot" Rod Fuller.

As we approach another drag racing season, NHRA is quick point out that car counts for the 49th Winternationals are up from a year ago.
But does truth really lie in numbers?
The Top Fuel entry list shows 20 entries, but a closer look and we find that six of the competitors are not what we be classified as full-time teams, including the dragster driven by Arley Lango, who is more noted for blowing up than running it through the backdoor.
I guess we'll see the crowds response and what impact the loss of three or so of the sports most-popular drivers, including "Hot" Rod Fuller, Hillary Will and JR Todd. Let's also note that Doug Kalitta is on the entry list, but his Connie-Kalitta owned team is only slated to compete on a limited basis this season.