NASCAR: Joe Gibbs Racing 2017 Team Preview

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May 15, 2016; Dover, DE, USA; NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Matt Kenseth (20) crosses the finish line ahead of driver Kyle Larson (42) to win the AAA 400 Drive For Autism at Dover International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

Matt Kenseth

Crew Chief: Jason Ratcliff

2016 points finish: 5th

2016 stats: 2 wins, 1 pole, 8 top-five and 19 top-ten finishes.

2016 grade: B+

2017 outlook: Kenseth still probably doesn’t know why Carl Edwards retired, but as the new season is about to begin, the veteran driver is still searching for his second championship.

Kenseth has had steady success at JGR during his tenure but after his first season with the team in 2013 where he won a career best seven races, but has alternated seasons of high win totals.

The only cause for concern from 2016 is that Kenseth had just eight top-five finishes, his lowest total since six in 2010.

Kenseth is still the master when it comes to consistency and the new point structure should help reward his driving style when it comes to the beginning and middle of the races. However, Kenseth’s consistency when it comes to the final ten races of the season could use a little more improvement this year as he looks to win his second title and first with JGR.

2017 will be a success if: Kenseth scores two or more wins and makes it to the final round in Homestead.

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