Truex will have the same crew that guided him to 12 wins over the past two years in the Busch Series. Crew chief Kevin “Bono” Manion is as steady as they come and could demand a high price down the road. Keeping this crew in the Busch Series for a second go-round last year may have been the best decision the brass at DEI has made in over two years. The time has allowed Truex to mature as a driver, develop chemistry with his team and learn the tracks.

The Bass Pro Shops team made seven starts in the Cup Series last season, which resulted in five DNFs. A closer look reveals that two of the DNFs were the result of blown engines, which points to DEI using the No. 1 machine as a research and development car. In the two races he finished, Truex managed respectable finishes of seventh and 15th.

On the downside, this team enters the Cup Series with a rebounding organization. A lack of reliable management at Dale Earnhardt, Inc. factors into the ranking, as does the fact that the focus of the company will be on getting Earnhardt back in championship form.

As with all rookies, there will be a steep learning curve. However, his tight relationship with Junior should make the transition easier.