For better or worse? Ranking NASCAR offseason driver, crew chief moves

Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, January 30th 2025 at 8:25 GMT by MSN
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More than half the NASCAR Cup Series full-time teams either have a new driver or a new crew chief. What teams or drivers made the best moves? NASCAR fans will get their first glimpse this weekend at the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

The article from MSN Sports discusses the significant driver and crew chief changes during the NASCAR offseason, ranking them from best to worst. Key moves include:

Josh Berry to Stewart-Haas Racing: Seen as a positive move, Berry replaces Kevin Harvick, bringing fresh talent to the team with high expectations due to his Xfinity Series success.

Chase Elliott and Alan Gustafson: Their continued partnership is ranked highly due to their consistent performance and potential for future success.

Tyler Reddick and Billy Scott: Their move to 23XI Racing is viewed positively, with Reddick's talent and Scott's experience expected to yield strong results.

Martin Truex Jr. and James Small: Their decision to stay together is considered beneficial, especially after Truex's strong performance in the previous season.

William Byron and Rudy Fugle: Their ongoing collaboration is praised for their championship win and consistent performance.

Bubba Wallace and Bootie Barker: Their continued partnership is seen as a step in the right direction for Wallace's development.

Ryan Blaney and Jonathan Hassler: Their pairing is ranked well due to Blaney's championship win and Hassler's strategic input.

Kyle Busch and Randall Burnett: Their move to Richard Childress Racing is considered a gamble but with potential for success.

Denny Hamlin and Chris Gabehart: Their continued partnership is expected to keep Hamlin competitive.

Ross Chastain and Phil Surgen: Their pairing is ranked lower due to Chastain's aggressive driving style potentially clashing with Surgen's approach.

Joey Logano and Paul Wolfe: Their continued partnership is seen as stable but with room for improvement.

Brad Keselowski and Matt McCall: Their move is ranked lower due to Keselowski's performance dip and the need for better results.

Kevin Harvick's retirement: Noted as a significant loss for the sport, leaving a void in veteran presence.

Alex Bowman and Blake Harris: Their pairing is ranked towards the bottom due to Bowman's injury and the need for a strong comeback.

Chase Briscoe and Richard Boswell: Their move is seen as less promising due to Briscoe's performance and the team's overall standing.

Erik Jones and Dave Elenz: Their continued partnership is ranked low due to lackluster results in recent seasons.

Austin Dillon and Keith Rodden: Their pairing is at the bottom due to Dillon's inconsistent performance and the team's need for a turnaround.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-in/sports/other/for-better-or-worse-ranking-nascar-offseason-driver-crew-chief-moves/ar-AA1y5lOI ]

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