Awesome. Thanks for the link. I was just looking around behind the bumper, and figured that big space under the headlamp should be good for something. I'll pull it out next week to see how much room there really is in there. I was talking to my boss today, a former race car fabrication guy, and he says just build some preliminary systems out of dryer duct or sewer pipe to see if there really is an advantage before spending lots of time and money building something that might not work. This plays right into the findings of the guys in your link. Why buy the K&N when a modified stock box is as good, if not better.

Funny you mention the trim piece below the headlight housing, check this out: Air Induction
This is from Gadget's website. He is one of the guys behind URD (Underdog Racing Development). The pic is of his friend's truck; pretty much shows exactly what you mentioned. Looks really innovative.