The Outside Groove 2006 Season Preview--Part 11

31 through 33--Two oldsters and a newster

31. 07 Clint…Bowyer
The Case For: Bowyer finished second in Busch Series points in 2005—fully preparing him to become the next Mark Martin.
The Case Against: Nice try, Rich—we all know it’s the AOL car.
Changes: Has a new paint scheme with the number of wins this team should get on the hood.
Fun Fact: Robby Gordon still considers his ownership of the #7 to be a career highlight.

32. 14 Sterling Marlin
The Case For: Thanks to his new sponsor, Sterling now has plenty of connections to the world of organized crime.
The Case Against: The last time Sterling won, Dark Angel was considered a hot new show.
Changes: It’s a reformation of the old 10 team, a move that has confused just about everyone.
Fun Fact: 43% of Totally Nascar viewers still can’t get the image of a shirtless Sterling Marlin out of their heads.

33. 21 Ken Schrader
The Case For: Team has solid sponsorship for 19 races.
The Case Against: That solid sponsorship meant having to put a little girl’s face on the hood.
Changes: Lots—New driver, new sponsor, new crew chief. Motorcraft looks to return in a reduced role, though the actual plans have been shrouded in more secrecy than the new lead car for the 2007 line (hint: its not the Festiva).
Fun Fact: It is illegal to dislike Ken Schrader.