NASCAR: Defining Success For ’16 Sprint Cup Rookies

Brian Scott

2016 brings a new face to Richard Petty Motorsports in NASCAR Xfinity Series veteran Brian Scott. Scott was tabbed to drive the new No. 44 Ford in December, bringing with him the familial sponsorship backing from Albertson’s and Shore Lodge.  The move was somewhat controversial, with other, perhaps more experienced drivers on the market at the time, such as David Ragan, Regan Smith, or Brian Vickers. Despite this controversy, Richard Petty made the right decision in the new world of NASCAR, where sponsorship funding is hard to come by.

This move can be an all-around victory for everyone involved if the team separates itself from the struggles of 2015. While there is a new driver and new car number, the former No. 9 team forms the backbone of this race team.  Sam Hornish Jr. struggled with this race team in 2015, achieving only 3 top 10s and a 26th place points finish.

What Scott needs to do is separate himself from the past struggles of this team and start anew. RPM regarded the change to the No. 44 as a “return to tradition,” and Scott hopes his new face can help return the team to prior successes. This team must be consistent in 2016. Consistency for the No. 44 team will be beginning the season by earning top 20s, while Scott and new crew chief Chris Heroy develop a successful relationship.

Avoiding DNFs also is a must for this team. Hornish struggled mightily to finish races in the 2015 campaign. This team may rip off a few top 10s throughout the season, but being a serious competitor in the ROTY battle will be difficult for the No. 44 team. Don’t look for this team to achieve many if any top 5s, let alone reaching Victory Lane.

Success for the No. 44 team: Earning lead lap finishes and equating those finishes to top 15s or better.

Next: Xfinity Champ Heads to the Top Series