If you look at Roush-Fenway Racing for the 2013 season it is clear the organization has taken a hit. They have lost perhaps their most steady driver in Matt Kenseth, who is leaving for Joe Gibbs Racing.
Kenseth's departure leaves a big void in the organization. His #17 Ford will be driven by rookie Ricky Stenhouse Jr in 2013, the two time reining NASCAR Nationwide Series Champion. Stenhouse is a nice driver but he is a rookie. He may be able to fill Kenseth's shoes but it may take a year or two. Can Ricky Stenhouse Jr really make the Chase in 2013?
The last time we've seen a rookie driver make the chase was Denny Hamlin back in the 2006 season. Matt Kenseth's #17 team from 2012 will move to Carl Edwards' #99 car for 2013. Stenhouse will have first year crew chief Scott Graves turning the wrenches on his team in 2013. The last time a first year crew chief and first year driver finished in the top ten in points? 2002 when Ryan Newman and Matt Borland did it. He is ...
