Lance McGrew will be back at the helm of Earnhardt's team next season

     Lance McGrew (Photo: Getty Images for NASCAR)
     

   By Mike Mulhern
   mikemulhern.net

   TALLADEGA, Ala.
   Lance McGrew will continue as Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s crew chief next season, the team announced Friday, ending speculation about the future of that pairing.
   "I can see the impact that Lance is making," Earnhardt said. "I'm excited about it."
   "I've been in this sport for 17 years…and when given this opportunity, to work with Junior and with the best racing operation in the world…..
    "This is the time of year that everyone is looking for direction and momentum for next year," McGrew says.
   McGrew took over the role from Tony Eury Jr., Earnhardt's long-time crew chief, in the spring, after Earnhardt's slow start. Things haven't really improved, in terms of results – still no wins – but Earnhardt says he and McGrew are bonding and he wanted car owner Rick Hendrick to keep McGrew as the team boss.
     
     

     Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Photo: Getty Images for NASCAR)