The driver, Denny Hamlin has been a fixture in the chase over the years, without getting a title.
The crew chief, Darian Grubb, helped lead Tony Stewart to a Cup Championship in 2011.
Put the two Virginia natives together, and you could have a recipe for success at the highest level.
"It's been neat to watch. It was a hard decision to go through, but Darian brings alot to Joe Gibbs Racing," say JD Gibbs, team president. "He really gives Denny some encouragement and guidance. He is not gonna get 'in your face,' and scream at you. He is just gonna lead by example, so we are excited about that."
What had to be an awkward exit from Stewart-Haas Racing, left Grubb with a lot of options. But not all were as a crew chief. That is what the Floyd County native wanted, and he is happy with his new home.
"It feels really good to be a part of Joe Gibbs Racing. The professionalism they have is pretty impressive, so I'm glad to be around that," Grubb said. "We had alot turmoil at the end of the year, but still came out positive. We won the Championship and won 5 races. I came out of there with my head held high, then went on with my next endeavor. I am really looking to getting another chapter started at Joe Gibbs Racing."
And with the 'Commonwealth combo' this season, Grubb looks forward to working with his new driver.
"He's (Denny Hamlin) a great guy. Both our backgrounds were similar working up through the late model ranks, and enjoying racing in Virginia. We are hoping to go out there, and translate into success in Cup Series," Grubb hopes.
"We never really talked in the garage during race weekends. So, until I had lunch with him, and listened to his thoughts on running a race team, I did not really get a full appreciation of how good this guy really is. I am excited to have a person of that talent level running my race team," explained Hamlin.
A race team that hopes to push beyond just competing for a title, and start winning them.
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