Jamie McMurray had as many DNFs (seven) in 2007 as top-10s in the 26 car. Credit: Autostock

Carter joins Roush as crew chief for McMurray

CONCORD, N.C. -- Roush Racing on Friday announced that Larry Carter will serve as the crew chief for Jamie McMurray and the No. 26 Ford team in the upcoming Nextel Cup season.

"It was a great opportunity when I first got the call from Jamie," said Carter, a 12-year NASCAR veteran. "I know last year the No. 26 team had their struggles, but I think with the team we have assembled for next year, we'll have everything in place to have a good season."

Larry Carter led the No. 2 Dodge into the Chase in 2005. Credit: Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images

Carter, who previously served as crew chief for Rusty Wallace in 2004-05, worked with another former champion, Bill Elliott, last season preparing Michael Waltrip Racing's No. 00 entry for Cup. In December, he was named crew chief for the 00 Toyota Camry, to be driven in 2007 by David Reutimann, but left shortly thereafter.

"I'm looking forward to starting this season with Jamie," Carter said. "Not only will I be working with Jamie, but with the other four crew chiefs here at Roush. Being able to put five heads together is what makes Roush such a great team."

In 2006, McMurray worked with three crew chiefs, all with little success. He finished 25th in the point standings with three top-fives and seven top-10s.

"I'm really excited to have Larry over here as the crew chief," said McMurray, who has already tested with Carter. "I've known Larry for a long time and can't wait to get the 2007 season started with him. Larry is a smart guy and has a lot of years of experience under his belt. It's going to be to our advantage having Larry on top of the box making the calls next season."

Jamie McMurray can ask Rusty Wallace about his new crew chief. Credit: Autostock

McMurray began his first year at Roush working with Jimmy Fennig, the crew chief for Kurt Busch's Cup-winning team in 2004. But Fennig was re-assigned to Busch Series duty seven races into the season, beginning a carousel of crew chief moves at Roush.

Roush teamed McMurray with Bob Osborne and promoted Wally Brown to crew chief for Carl Edwards. Late in the season, Osborne returned to the 99 car and Brown joined McMurray's 26 operation. Brown eventually took a leave of absence from the organization. Enter Carter.

"We've been working together this week in the shop looking at different options for the Daytona test next week and how we are going to make this No. 26 car faster," McMurray said. "I'm really looking forward to having a better season than last year.

"Near the end of the year we didn't have any luck on our side. Hopefully that is all behind us and we can focus on the upcoming season."

McMurray and Carter will make their track debut next week at the first Daytona testing session.