I was "one of the select few" to watch the “Still on a hot seat” draft 😏😁. It worked regardless. I was going to say “Kyle Busch's comments on Hendricks a couple months ago worked out” but your new draft mentioned Kyle Busch.
Not so much Brett being dumb, but provocative. The DBC crew is devoting time to this baseless rumor in order to gain viewership and drive traffic onto their podcast.
I don't think he is actually wrong. I think Alex Bowman is either lying or being lied to. I'd take Zane Smith or even Justin Haley over him any day, and I wouldn't be shocked if Rick Hendrick felt the same.
That’s fair, but Elliott and Larson are fairly recent champions and Byron very well should have won the championship last year. Bowman hasn’t shown the same pace. Sure he’s consistent, but he’s not a winner.
This is also Bowman's first full season with his new crew chief that could take time to materialize into a good connection. But I think they would make a crew chief change before a driver change. That's just my opinion and might be a Bowman fan but still just something to think about! Love the content been watching for years!!!
Bowman was literally leading the points last year before his injury. He was .006 seconds away or whatever from being the Daytona 500 champion this year. He's better than half the field - hell, he's better than half the playoff field.
@@davidreece5867 exactly. Hendrick needs drivers better than just 50% of the field. That team needs to expect championship contenders. All of the drivers except for Bowman are.
@@davidreece5867 He's 13th in regular season points, so even without win and you're in, he's still in the playoffs. If you're saying, "If we didn't win, he'd be out," then that's also true of like half the playoff grid. Pretty dumb comment dude.
People seem to forget that Bowman was leading the points last year until the penalty and back injury. 2022 he made the playoffs but got injured in the round of 12, ultimately ending his playoff hopes. 2024 is also the first year with a new crew chief. It's going to take some time for new pairings to click. And let's not forget there's always going to be a 4th driver at Hendrick that just doesn't seem to be fast as his teammates. Bowman isn't a bad driver by any means. I think he does better than most.
Call me crazy, but he might be a dark horse champion one day. In 2023, before Bowman got hurt, I believe he was quietly the best HMS driver since he was leading the points. Denny Hamlin broke his back, and it took time for him to consistently win races. When Dale Jr got his concussion in 2012 he still made deep runs for a championship. Elliott and Larson won championships, Byron had a career year last year. Alex might shock some people in a few years.
@@nascar4842 People also seem to forget that in 2020, he scored the most points in the playoffs and made it to the round of 8, but certain circumstances out of his control prevented from from competing in the championship. I agree with whatever you said. Bowman is a solid driver. I think he might slowly creep up in the championship fight because a healthy Bowman can shock people. Just look at 2016 in Phoenix. Led nearly 200 laps and finished 6th.
Hendricks always has a driver that doesn't get the best equipment. He also takes good equipment from his better driver if the wrong person is winning. Alex is a good driver just needs better equipment instead of putting him down as a driver
@lemonjuicegaming6551 I'm indifferent to Bowman as a favorite driver, but the guy is not a slouch whatsoever. Not too long ago, William Byron seemed like a straggler to some degree. Now, he is known as a consistent winner and a future champion. It's a good problem that your "weakest link" can consistently win. I know the circumstances are somewhat different, but who on earth had Martin Truex Jr. becoming the 2017 Cup champion? One of the biggest upsets in NASCAR history.
You should do a version of the power ranking but with all 16 playoff drivers and you rank them from 16th-1st like the normal power rankings and asthe rounds go from 16/12/8/4 You only rank the drivers in the playoffs
He's also better than Casey Mears and Brian Vickers were in the fourth Hendrick car. Perhaps Joe Nemechek as well but Joe wasn't there very long and he got the 25 car to victory lane
Bowman has the potential to be a champion. I think if HMS does keep him through 2026, Bowman will have won 4-6 more races and made the playoffs every season. That team is capable of making a run deep into the playoffs this season. I believe they’ll be better next season
@@user-ed1yx2fq7l Elliott got that fluky caution at Texas on green flag pit stops or else he wasn’t gonna win that race cause he had a 10th place car and Larson sold that race
The Bowman talks are for 2025. I believe Reddick will be available in 2025. That's the guy Hendrick would replace Alex with. Nobody else comes to mind. Remember, fans this is Hendrick they get who they want! And Reddick is a phenomenal talent
Bowman 1 win 12 top 10s, 6 top 5s. Elliot 1 win, 12 top 10s, 7 top 5s. Why is everyone on this kids case? Nobody is criticizing Chase? Alex is a good solid winning driver. Kind of hard these days to have 4 playoff teams with multiple wins each. Both Chase and Alex deserve their rides.
@@jamiethornton6101 most of those crashes are not of his doing. Getting caught up in someone else’s mess. A lot of that happening this year. His ave finish is still in the upper half of the field. Chase has an ave finish of 11 only 4 higher. I will agree with you that is a significant difference. I will still maintain that Alex is a way above average driver.
@@alanglassman6473 very true in a way. Yet you hear the best, Larson, Blaney, Hamlin, Elliott, and others have all said the same thing. If you run mid pack, that's the chance you take. Bowman has been running mid pack a lot this year. I don't know if it's all his fault or still has some effects from his accident last year, before NASCAR fixed the rear of these cars. Honestly, with the exception of about three races, he just doesn't look like the same Bowman before the accident.
@@alanglassman6473 I've got to agree that getting caught up in crashes is a big part of the issues for the 48 team. Some teams just seem to have that kind of bad luck for an entire season. Sometimes it follows them around. Obviously there is also a lot of pressure when all your teammates are having a better season.
Also, new crew chief for AB, that'll take some getting used to. Not everything can click immediately. But Bowman also does have some tracks that you just know he isn't going to run well at, and I think that bothers Hendrick fans a lot.
HMS has Larson (one of the best raw talent in decades), Byron (leader of next gen car wins), and Elliott (one of the best drivers in the gen 6 cars and lock for most popular driver). Name a driver realistically on the market that isn’t going to be the 4th wheel there. Bowman is equally as talented, if not better than anyone HMS could put in that car. Hell, the dude was leading the points until his back injury last year. He’s tied for 3rd in number of top 10’s this year. So what he’s no leading laps. You’re most likely getting at least one win with him (luck or not). There’s zero reason for a change
Hey, Eric, suggestion. How about an episode on the B to B aspect of sponsorship? Like Hendrick and Penske, both mega dealers, are sponsored by oil companies, which in turn supply all those dealerships with their product. My favorite is Rheem. Brandon Jones, son of Rheem CEO, sells a bunch of water heaters to Menards. Love Rheem, they have been good to my guy, CBell. Just an idea.
yeah i would love some more insight into the business of motorsports. i love when dale jr puts kelley on and lets her talk shop with another expert. i come from the entertainment industry where the land is so much different; i was shocked to find out how drivers get their rides and how it relates to payment.
Bowman's biggest problem is he's one of those drivers who can't seem to find a way to stay out of trouble. It seems like he's involved in a crash almost every week and his average finish of nearly 16th. He shows flashes of brilliance each season. But he's one of those guys who always seems to find a way to have something happen to him. Part of that could be he does run mid pack a lot. But it certainly doesn't help that the other three drivers at HMS over the last two to three years all make deeper playoff runs than he does as well.
@@bobbbobb4663he’s won every year since 2019 other than 2023 when he got injured which is rare to come back from a back injury and still be top tier so I’m not surprised he didn’t run up front much. But this season he has He had a good stretch of top 10s-top 5s
@@bobbbobb4663he needs a crew chief that knows what they're doing. Years of listening to his radio just shows week after week of him not getting a good handling car.
Hendrick Motorsports gives and receives respect from all employees. That’s why they are top notch. My take, Mr H made a commitment to Alex Bowman and he will keep it at least until his contract has run its course.
People keep saying he is the 4th car but the forth Hendrick car has never been this good they are usually 15th -20th not top ten in the points every year
Forget the guarantee of making the playoffs. Every year Bowman’s made the playoffs he’s made to at least the Round of 12. Even that is hard to come by There will always be a fourth wheel at every team, Bowman is that guy. And he’s a fourth wheel with a lot of air pressure in it so it ain’t going flat or getting replaced anytime soon
Do people actually think Corey Lajoie is a better choice for Hendrick than Alex Bowman. Bowman's not as good as the other Hendrick drivers but come on.
Its not Bowman, the TEAM, is not sharing notes with Blake Harris , The results are 90% Harris, and his 4 steps behind the other HMS cars on the track, the 48 team should switch CCs with Willy B, and then we'll see him up front ALOT more , Trust me !!!!
Correct me if I am wrong, but Ally follows Bowman outside of NASCAR for sponsorship (Chili Bowl). I dont think that happens nearly as much with the other HMS drivers.
I dont know if Mr. H. And Kyle Busch has ever buried the hatchet from the first time he drove for Hendrick. Plus, I think things might start looking up for Busch and RCR..
Always kinda liked Brandon Jones, he seems like a throwback to the old Busch Series drivers who weren't particularly intent on racing in the Cup Series full time and were fine with competing in Busch instead, which isn't a bad deal.
there's always going to be a "4th out of 4" at a 4 car team. that's just how things work. it just happens to have been Alex Bowman pretty much the whole time he's been there, short of maybe 2021. keep in mind that he's only missed the playoffs once in HMS equipment, and that was last year with his back injury. even so, he's still consistently toward the top half of the field every single year, and just needs a bit more consistency to be right up there with Larson and Elliott
Erick Estepp - 23XI only has one car in......Like they have four cars and only got one in. Comparing a team with two cars to a team with four like HMS or JGR is crazy.
A lot of people give Bowman shit for underperforming in Hendrick equipment... and then either forget to mention or entirely forget Cindric is wrecking Penske equipment on a monthly basis.
There has traditionally always been one Hendrick car that didn't run well. At first, it was always the 25, then it was the 5, then it was the 88, and now it's the 48.
Eric if you see this comment you have won me over as an active viewer. Will admit I did used to think you were one of those amateur click baiters but you truly are professional and provide very accurate info. Your predictions tend to be fairly spot on as well. Love your positive but no nonsense personality too. The stop motion videos are fun too.
As an Alex Bowman fan, I would be absolutely gutted if he did lose his ride. I was a big Jimmie Johnson fan and stuck with Alex and the 48 after Jimmie retired. Couldn't think of anyone more perfect for the 48 than AB.
As Eric pointed out, HMS has always had 2 AMAZING cars, 1 good(ish) car and 1 car that consistently lags behind. Bowman is unfortunately in the latter. HOWEVER - Everyone seems to forget that Bowman was electric between 2020 and 2022. He won 7 times, made deep runs into the playoffs and even almost had a Championship 4 run I believe in 2021? Concussion at the end of 2022 removed him from the playoffs. 2023 he led the points for I believe 4 weeks? And continued to be electric until his back injury. And in 2024, Bowman has lacked leading laps, but has sat in the top 10 in tegular season points the majority of the season, has top 5's and 10's within 1 or 2 of not only his teammates but other front runners, won a race and ALMOST won the Daytona 500 as well. Bowman is a solid driver with a new crew chief this year, Ive never understood the hate for him. I think Alex still has a very bright career ahead of him
When you mentioned lagging Hendricks cars. You made me think of Kasey Kane. Do you know what he's up too? You should consider letting us know. He has a lot of fans out here.
As much as I like Brett Griffin, I think it’s pretty reckless of him to speculate like that. I don’t think he realized he was signed through 2026,but not only that, Hendrick doesn’t really fire drivers. Maybe Casey Mears? Could Alex be let go? Sure, but I think Hendrick would just let his contract run out. Not outright fire him
Just to play devil's advocate. This literally means just as little as the rumor. Bowman would say this exact thing regardless of the situation. Also the reality is as seat at HMS is heating up. They have drivers in the pipeline, and the only driver who consistently underperforms compared to the rest is Bowman. I don't remember the last time he won a race on pure speed, and not due to some outside factors helping him. Maybe 2020 feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.
2021 Dover he was fast and that Martinsville car , also was fast at Richmond 22 the Las Vegas car was fast . 23 he would’ve won cota b4 Ross wiped him out and then of course this year
@@Shorts3J21 Yeah but he didn't win those races on speed. late races yellows, and strategy won him martinsville, and las vegas. The last time Bowman was the dominant car led the most laps and won was in 2020 I'm almost positive.
In what world has the 4th Hendrick car ever been a championship car? Dale jr, mark martin, Kasey khane were all huge names to drive for Hendrick yet nothing they did was leaps and bounds better than Bowman’s 3 win season. And how could you expect that when Jimmie and Jeff were still winning in that era? That 4th car always was a notch down from the others, and usually the 3rd best car is noticeably behind on race winning speed compared to the top 2
That's not really saying much if half the field is less talented than an 8 year old in Mariokart. He's honestly pretty mid and is the worst of the HMS drivers
This is my question for people who say, but he won a race! He won Chicago! Does Harrison Burton deserve a ride at HMS? He won Daytona! Just like the city street race, it's being ran on a track that most races are not ran on. Bowman has 14 laps he's ran as the leader. Burton has led 13 in inferior equipment.
I am huge Hendrick fan, but I my interest/care factor with Bowman is the least of the 4 drivers. His personality is just "meh" for me. He stays, fine, he goes, fine too. Have you heard Bowman's voice? Nasally annoying, lol. I am not surprised they used Jr's voice over for the TV commercial. Bowman is safe for Hendrick. He can drive, and win.
Thank goodness he's staying at Hendrick the next few years despite the 48 team has been struggle since early the season and the last 4 races after the break. But, Brett Griffin once again has cause another controversy rumor on Twitter and that's why nobody listens DBC because they have become more unbearable.
As a bowman fan I hate all the slander that’s out there. The last year of the gen 6 car he was tied for 2nd with most wins that year. Sure he doesn’t lead all the laps that his teammates do or win as much but you can’t argue that he’s a proven winner in cup and can contend for wins on any given weekend
Bowman has been a workhorse for Hendrick in the past. He was in the simulator day after day while waiting on the 88/48 to open up. He may not be a Jeff Gordon or a Kyle Larson but he's an above average driver. He fits in well with Hendrick Motorsports.
Probably not it's not a racing game it's a management game, none of the new games you could because they freeze the field, NASCAR Thunder 2004 you can.
In terms of Alex bowman, the only reason I see that you swap them out is because you have found a significantly better driver, or a very young driver that has a ton of potential and has sponsorship. It's really hard to have four top-level drivers on a team. It isn't like there is an extra reddick, Larson, Hamlin, Bell, Logano or Blaney type thats available. Bowman is solid. Yeah, he has had some wins, but I have never been sold on him. But who would you replace him with? I like guys like Haley but that's more of a lateral move. I think you have to wait a few more years for a young driver to come up and replace him. Have to remember that it's not just a quality driver, but it is one with the right type of personality. It can't be some big loud mouth type personality. I just don't see what's available to make it worth it. At this moment
Why does the Media want Alex Bowman to get out of Hendrick Motorsports? like really and I like Kyle Busch but I think he should drive for Denny Hamlin next year hopefully
I don't see the a deal for NASCAR and the teams signed anytime soon... Might get a few teams to sign, but I think most will be signing a few days before the Clash or the Daytona 500.
I’ve been watching NASCAR for 20 years. This is BY FAR, the best the 4th Hendrick car has ever ran. Bowman is good his teammates just happen to be great and that’s ok.
People just want change for the shake of change, the guy has won 8 races in 7 years. People forget jr won 9 in 10 years at the same organization, & never thought about getting booted
I'm sick of the argument of him being the 4th HMS driver. SOMEONE has to be the 4th driver, how about the guy with 8 wins who hasn't missed the playoffs in a healthy season? It's like the family guy mystery box scene, look it up if you don't know the reference
The Race Team Alliance pushed the charter system to be more like stick & ball sports. If you are a player or coach in the NFL, NBA or MLB & you criticize the officiating or the league, you will get a big fine. So they are getting what they wanted.
This is coming from a fan of Alex Bowman and Kasey Kahne. The thing with Bowman is he is to HMS as what my dear Kasey Kahne was to HMS. Just like Kasey, Alex is there when very talented drivers/MPD is there. I feel like he's getting the same treatment at Hendrick. While I hope it doesn't happen, we all know how that turned out for Kasey.
I’m a Bowman fan, and I hate that he seems to continually deal with these rumors. He’s a great driver and finished P5 today. The haters need to shut it.
...the dude has 8 career wins & was leading the points last year before his back injury effectively ended his season, not to mention coming within a bumper of winning the Daytona 500 this year!... Alex deserves better respect!...
This is my question for people who say, but Bowman won a race! He won Chicago! Does Harrison Burton deserve a ride at HMS? He won Daytona! Just like the city street race, it's being ran on a track that most races are not ran on. Bowman has 14 laps he's ran as the leader for the entire 2024 season. Burton has led 13 laps in inferior equipment. Anyone who says Bowman isn't bringing up the rear in the top equipment in NASCAR is just wrong. Bowman seems to get the biggest pass of any NASCAR driver and that includes Eric.
😂 I am a Corey Lajoy fan and I knew you were joking when you put that clip in. At this point, I can only hope that the 19 truck helps him win and put some consideration for Big time cup rides in the future. From an OG who saw the original 😉
![HIWWHEE | OHM [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/OJJLtTLqLag/mqdefault.jpg)
![[UNCUT] The Loyal Pin ปิ่นภักดิ์ EP.7 (1/4)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/2rPGOyKs0VE/mqdefault.jpg)
Apologies for the reupload! Wanted to update the video with new comments from Alex Bowman.
It's OK
It’s fine.
Chad Kanaus give you a call?
I was "one of the select few" to watch the “Still on a hot seat” draft 😏😁. It worked regardless. I was going to say “Kyle Busch's comments on Hendricks a couple months ago worked out” but your new draft mentioned Kyle Busch.
Man, it's like 5th or 6th time this year you make a video and within an hour new info comes up that turns the story on its head.
Brett Griffin tries not to say the dumbest shit ever challenge: Impossible.
Not so much Brett being dumb, but provocative.
The DBC crew is devoting time to this baseless rumor in order to gain viewership and drive traffic onto their podcast.
Copy that. Lol
@spencermccormick299 same for any democrat
DBC are idiots. Never forget that they refused to criticize or say anything regarding Hamlin a couple of years ago because they shared a sponsor.
I don't think he is actually wrong. I think Alex Bowman is either lying or being lied to.
I'd take Zane Smith or even Justin Haley over him any day, and I wouldn't be shocked if Rick Hendrick felt the same.
Someone has to be the 4th driver at HMS. Not everyone on a 4 car team can be a 1 or 2
Good point although remember about 10-15 years ago when the 4th driver at HMS was considered either Junior or Martin. That lineup was insane.
Exactly
That’s fair, but Elliott and Larson are fairly recent champions and Byron very well should have won the championship last year. Bowman hasn’t shown the same pace. Sure he’s consistent, but he’s not a winner.
@@gavynhohon2818 he also broke his back, had concussions that he’s still recovering from, if he ever can.
With his performance he’s like an 8th driver bro 😂😂 at least the other 3 are all very close together in performance
This is also Bowman's first full season with his new crew chief that could take time to materialize into a good connection. But I think they would make a crew chief change before a driver change. That's just my opinion and might be a Bowman fan but still just something to think about! Love the content been watching for years!!!
Bowman was literally leading the points last year before his injury. He was .006 seconds away or whatever from being the Daytona 500 champion this year. He's better than half the field - hell, he's better than half the playoff field.
Except he’s only in the playoffs because of a win.
@@davidreece5867 exactly. Hendrick needs drivers better than just 50% of the field. That team needs to expect championship contenders. All of the drivers except for Bowman are.
@@davidreece5867 He's 13th in regular season points, so even without win and you're in, he's still in the playoffs.
If you're saying, "If we didn't win, he'd be out," then that's also true of like half the playoff grid.
Pretty dumb comment dude.
@@t.hurson2298there has always been at least one Hendrick driver that is not a championship contender.
They use the 48 as a test car and they need a good driver that can run consistently and that’s what Alex Bowman does
People seem to forget that Bowman was leading the points last year until the penalty and back injury. 2022 he made the playoffs but got injured in the round of 12, ultimately ending his playoff hopes. 2024 is also the first year with a new crew chief. It's going to take some time for new pairings to click. And let's not forget there's always going to be a 4th driver at Hendrick that just doesn't seem to be fast as his teammates. Bowman isn't a bad driver by any means. I think he does better than most.
Call me crazy, but he might be a dark horse champion one day. In 2023, before Bowman got hurt, I believe he was quietly the best HMS driver since he was leading the points. Denny Hamlin broke his back, and it took time for him to consistently win races. When Dale Jr got his concussion in 2012 he still made deep runs for a championship. Elliott and Larson won championships, Byron had a career year last year. Alex might shock some people in a few years.
@@nascar4842 People also seem to forget that in 2020, he scored the most points in the playoffs and made it to the round of 8, but certain circumstances out of his control prevented from from competing in the championship. I agree with whatever you said. Bowman is a solid driver. I think he might slowly creep up in the championship fight because a healthy Bowman can shock people. Just look at 2016 in Phoenix. Led nearly 200 laps and finished 6th.
Hendricks always has a driver that doesn't get the best equipment. He also takes good equipment from his better driver if the wrong person is winning. Alex is a good driver just needs better equipment instead of putting him down as a driver
@lemonjuicegaming6551 I'm indifferent to Bowman as a favorite driver, but the guy is not a slouch whatsoever. Not too long ago, William Byron seemed like a straggler to some degree. Now, he is known as a consistent winner and a future champion. It's a good problem that your "weakest link" can consistently win. I know the circumstances are somewhat different, but who on earth had Martin Truex Jr. becoming the 2017 Cup champion? One of the biggest upsets in NASCAR history.
Doesn't Hendrick Cars finance a ton of cars through Ally? Remember, Ally started out as General Motors Acceptance Corporation.
Correct. They've been with Hendrick for decades
@@patricktuggles4815yeah and they will finance the equinox next year after the Camaro expires
@@lefturn99 think they used to be GMAC finance
@@outfield1988 theyre the same thing lol
Chevy in general… I went through them for my Impala when the new style dropped like 12 years ago
Real ones saw the original
As a real one, I saw the original.
I was halfway watching the original….does that make halfway real lol 🤔😅
I was watching then it stopped playing
I had it queued up
I thought my internet went out or something haha
You deleted the other video while I was watching it.🤣 Good on you for your commitment to accurate reporting!
You should do a version of the power ranking but with all 16 playoff drivers and you rank them from 16th-1st like the normal power rankings and asthe rounds go from 16/12/8/4 You only rank the drivers in the playoffs
Exactly. Then if he wants to acknowledge non playoff drivers at the moment do a top 3 or 5 and call it "best of the rest"
@@Visionary_Watcher W idea
Being the 4th driver at Hendricks is a place most would love to be.
I hate the Bowman hate. He’s won races, makes the playoffs. Has done better than Kasey Kahne did and Dale Jr
Sure but bowman isn't the the best but he's not the worst he's in the middle
@@midwesttrainchasers8587right. He's got a lot of potential that I think he needs to start pushing himself more.
He's also better than Casey Mears and Brian Vickers were in the fourth Hendrick car. Perhaps Joe Nemechek as well but Joe wasn't there very long and he got the 25 car to victory lane
Sorry to break it to you but HMS has never had all 4 cars run well at the same time. So yeah can't fault any of the 3 drivers.
Bowman has the potential to be a champion. I think if HMS does keep him through 2026, Bowman will have won 4-6 more races and made the playoffs every season. That team is capable of making a run deep into the playoffs this season. I believe they’ll be better next season
Bowman & Elliott have the exact same stats lol he’s just leading tons of laps
Not
Elliott won on a real track. Bowman won on a crapshoot rain covered surface after the heavy favorite SVG was taken out by Briscoe’s pathetic driving
@@user-ed1yx2fq7l he also took out Wallace, who was beating him up until that point.
Chase doesn’t run 25th on speed
@@user-ed1yx2fq7l Elliott got that fluky caution at Texas on green flag pit stops or else he wasn’t gonna win that race cause he had a 10th place car and Larson sold that race
The Bowman talks are for 2025. I believe Reddick will be available in 2025. That's the guy Hendrick would replace Alex with. Nobody else comes to mind. Remember, fans this is Hendrick they get who they want! And Reddick is a phenomenal talent
Bowman 1 win 12 top 10s, 6 top 5s.
Elliot 1 win, 12 top 10s, 7 top 5s.
Why is everyone on this kids case? Nobody is criticizing Chase? Alex is a good solid winning driver. Kind of hard these days to have 4 playoff teams with multiple wins each. Both Chase and Alex deserve their rides.
The difference is average finish. Bowman always finds a way to crash and those are the facts. His average finish is almost 16th. That's not good.
@@jamiethornton6101 most of those crashes are not of his doing. Getting caught up in someone else’s mess. A lot of that happening this year. His ave finish is still in the upper half of the field. Chase has an ave finish of 11 only 4 higher. I will agree with you that is a significant difference. I will still maintain that Alex is a way above average driver.
@@alanglassman6473 very true in a way. Yet you hear the best, Larson, Blaney, Hamlin, Elliott, and others have all said the same thing. If you run mid pack, that's the chance you take. Bowman has been running mid pack a lot this year. I don't know if it's all his fault or still has some effects from his accident last year, before NASCAR fixed the rear of these cars. Honestly, with the exception of about three races, he just doesn't look like the same Bowman before the accident.
@@alanglassman6473 I've got to agree that getting caught up in crashes is a big part of the issues for the 48 team. Some teams just seem to have that kind of bad luck for an entire season. Sometimes it follows them around. Obviously there is also a lot of pressure when all your teammates are having a better season.
Bowman is this generations version of Kasey Kahne at Hendrick
Also, new crew chief for AB, that'll take some getting used to. Not everything can click immediately. But Bowman also does have some tracks that you just know he isn't going to run well at, and I think that bothers Hendrick fans a lot.
HMS has Larson (one of the best raw talent in decades), Byron (leader of next gen car wins), and Elliott (one of the best drivers in the gen 6 cars and lock for most popular driver). Name a driver realistically on the market that isn’t going to be the 4th wheel there. Bowman is equally as talented, if not better than anyone HMS could put in that car. Hell, the dude was leading the points until his back injury last year. He’s tied for 3rd in number of top 10’s this year. So what he’s no leading laps. You’re most likely getting at least one win with him (luck or not). There’s zero reason for a change
Byron is actually tied with Larson for the most wins in the next gen car, but yes. You are correct about your statement.
Hey, Eric, suggestion. How about an episode on the B to B aspect of sponsorship? Like Hendrick and Penske, both mega dealers, are sponsored by oil companies, which in turn supply all those dealerships with their product.
My favorite is Rheem. Brandon Jones, son of Rheem CEO, sells a bunch of water heaters to Menards. Love Rheem, they have been good to my guy, CBell. Just an idea.
yeah i would love some more insight into the business of motorsports. i love when dale jr puts kelley on and lets her talk shop with another expert.
i come from the entertainment industry where the land is so much different; i was shocked to find out how drivers get their rides and how it relates to payment.
OOTG makes it hard to miss shows like NASCAR Race Hub and NASCAR America. Thanks for the content and the time you put into it.
Bowman's biggest problem is he's one of those drivers who can't seem to find a way to stay out of trouble. It seems like he's involved in a crash almost every week and his average finish of nearly 16th. He shows flashes of brilliance each season. But he's one of those guys who always seems to find a way to have something happen to him. Part of that could be he does run mid pack a lot. But it certainly doesn't help that the other three drivers at HMS over the last two to three years all make deeper playoff runs than he does as well.
Another season, another “Alex Bowman is out of the 48” rumor.
Never true. Put some respect on this man’s name.
If Bowman wants to shut down the rumors, he needs to perform. Otherwise, that contract buy out clause might get a workout.
@@bobbbobb4663he’s won every year since 2019 other than 2023 when he got injured which is rare to come back from a back injury and still be top tier so I’m not surprised he didn’t run up front much. But this season he has
He had a good stretch of top 10s-top 5s
Bowman needs to go. He's not even talented enough for the Truck series
@@BkBk-gy6vr did bowman steal your girl? 😂
@@bobbbobb4663he needs a crew chief that knows what they're doing. Years of listening to his radio just shows week after week of him not getting a good handling car.
Hendrick Motorsports gives and receives respect from all employees. That’s why they are top notch.
My take, Mr H made a commitment to Alex Bowman and he will keep it at least until his contract has run its course.
Bowman shut it down!
People keep saying he is the 4th car but the forth Hendrick car has never been this good they are usually 15th -20th not top ten in the points every year
....and he usually runs 20th to 25th every race. whats your point?
@@DannyDarkoMusic Blud you're delusional
Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman have the same number of wins since the beginning of 2023
Forget the guarantee of making the playoffs. Every year Bowman’s made the playoffs he’s made to at least the Round of 12. Even that is hard to come by
There will always be a fourth wheel at every team, Bowman is that guy. And he’s a fourth wheel with a lot of air pressure in it so it ain’t going flat or getting replaced anytime soon
Do people actually think Corey Lajoie is a better choice for Hendrick than Alex Bowman. Bowman's not as good as the other Hendrick drivers but come on.
Lajoie could not get it done at WWTR last year and is way worse than Hocevar in Spire equipment this year.
Its not Bowman, the TEAM, is not sharing notes with Blake Harris , The results are 90% Harris, and his 4 steps behind the other HMS cars on the track, the 48 team should switch CCs with Willy B, and then we'll see him up front ALOT more , Trust me !!!!
Hendrick is set for Larson to be the champion as far as who gets better data and crew. Alex gets the scraps
"We're all better off with an Ally" - Dale Jr. ;)
Correct me if I am wrong, but Ally follows Bowman outside of NASCAR for sponsorship (Chili Bowl). I dont think that happens nearly as much with the other HMS drivers.
The charter agreement could be signed next week.Haven't we said that like a hundred times
No, before this week all we heard was that nascar and the teams are far apart on an agreement. This is actually new news
Maybe I’m in the minority, but I’m happy to follow a guy who takes the time to re-upload when corresponding news breaks.
Great job as always, Eric 👏
I dont know if Mr. H. And Kyle Busch has ever buried the hatchet from the first time he drove for Hendrick. Plus, I think things might start looking up for Busch and RCR..
Bowman isn’t leaving the 48. He should return to form and be a championship contender in 2025
Always kinda liked Brandon Jones, he seems like a throwback to the old Busch Series drivers who weren't particularly intent on racing in the Cup Series full time and were fine with competing in Busch instead, which isn't a bad deal.
1:50 Never knew we'd get a quote from a shirt but here we are 😂
there's always going to be a "4th out of 4" at a 4 car team. that's just how things work. it just happens to have been Alex Bowman pretty much the whole time he's been there, short of maybe 2021. keep in mind that he's only missed the playoffs once in HMS equipment, and that was last year with his back injury. even so, he's still consistently toward the top half of the field every single year, and just needs a bit more consistency to be right up there with Larson and Elliott
I really thought we were getting spoiled with 2 OOTG videos in one day
Erick Estepp - 23XI only has one car in......Like they have four cars and only got one in. Comparing a team with two cars to a team with four like HMS or JGR is crazy.
Comparing a new team with two cars to HMS is a bad comparison
A lot of people give Bowman shit for underperforming in Hendrick equipment... and then either forget to mention or entirely forget Cindric is wrecking Penske equipment on a monthly basis.
An OOTG double-feature today? How can I say no to that.
There has traditionally always been one Hendrick car that didn't run well. At first, it was always the 25, then it was the 5, then it was the 88, and now it's the 48.
Alex Bowman’s only problem is that the other three are so good. It’s not that he’s bad.
Eric if you see this comment you have won me over as an active viewer. Will admit I did used to think you were one of those amateur click baiters but you truly are professional and provide very accurate info. Your predictions tend to be fairly spot on as well. Love your positive but no nonsense personality too. The stop motion videos are fun too.
As an Alex Bowman fan, I would be absolutely gutted if he did lose his ride. I was a big Jimmie Johnson fan and stuck with Alex and the 48 after Jimmie retired. Couldn't think of anyone more perfect for the 48 than AB.
Ally gets their warranty products pushed by Hendrick dealerships. That’s huge for them. Thus the Hendrick loyalty
Bowman is keeping the seat warm for Corey, ....last name not Lajoie.
Heim?
Day?
As Eric pointed out, HMS has always had 2 AMAZING cars, 1 good(ish) car and 1 car that consistently lags behind.
Bowman is unfortunately in the latter. HOWEVER - Everyone seems to forget that Bowman was electric between 2020 and 2022. He won 7 times, made deep runs into the playoffs and even almost had a Championship 4 run I believe in 2021? Concussion at the end of 2022 removed him from the playoffs. 2023 he led the points for I believe 4 weeks? And continued to be electric until his back injury. And in 2024, Bowman has lacked leading laps, but has sat in the top 10 in tegular season points the majority of the season, has top 5's and 10's within 1 or 2 of not only his teammates but other front runners, won a race and ALMOST won the Daytona 500 as well. Bowman is a solid driver with a new crew chief this year, Ive never understood the hate for him. I think Alex still has a very bright career ahead of him
When you mentioned lagging Hendricks cars. You made me think of Kasey Kane. Do you know what he's up too? You should consider letting us know. He has a lot of fans out here.
Would love to see Rajah in the 48 one day
I don't think Mr H is sponsoring his truck for nothing
If that charter deal gets done, we can get another Netflix show, NASCAR Full Speed
As much as I like Brett Griffin, I think it’s pretty reckless of him to speculate like that. I don’t think he realized he was signed through 2026,but not only that, Hendrick doesn’t really fire drivers. Maybe Casey Mears? Could Alex be let go? Sure, but I think Hendrick would just let his contract run out. Not outright fire him
Just to play devil's advocate. This literally means just as little as the rumor. Bowman would say this exact thing regardless of the situation. Also the reality is as seat at HMS is heating up. They have drivers in the pipeline, and the only driver who consistently underperforms compared to the rest is Bowman. I don't remember the last time he won a race on pure speed, and not due to some outside factors helping him. Maybe 2020 feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.
2021 Dover he was fast and that Martinsville car , also was fast at Richmond 22 the Las Vegas car was fast . 23 he would’ve won cota b4 Ross wiped him out and then of course this year
@@Shorts3J21 Yeah but he didn't win those races on speed. late races yellows, and strategy won him martinsville, and las vegas. The last time Bowman was the dominant car led the most laps and won was in 2020 I'm almost positive.
In what world has the 4th Hendrick car ever been a championship car? Dale jr, mark martin, Kasey khane were all huge names to drive for Hendrick yet nothing they did was leaps and bounds better than Bowman’s 3 win season. And how could you expect that when Jimmie and Jeff were still winning in that era? That 4th car always was a notch down from the others, and usually the 3rd best car is noticeably behind on race winning speed compared to the top 2
NASCAR Manager is actually really fun.
Can I just point out that all of Alex Bowmans teammates are champion contenders, past champions and future champions
Nascar. We want all our teams to open up and let the fans in. Also nascar don't talk bad about us
The fourth best driver at Hendrick is still better than more than half the field.
Good, Hendrick isn’t stupid. Bowman is better than half the field.
He sucks. Never up front usually in 20th so yeah, he's better than the crappier half of the field.
He’s mid. Also, his comments are weird your job is always on the line.
@@BkBk-gy6vrexactly
That's not really saying much if half the field is less talented than an 8 year old in Mariokart. He's honestly pretty mid and is the worst of the HMS drivers
I object to these replies. Bowman is cleanest and most talented Hendrick driver. Nuff said.
Alex Bowman has led 14 laps this year. You’ve gotta do better than that in a Hendrick car
And Eric was hinting at Bubba being replaced for leading 10x that many laps lol
This is my question for people who say, but he won a race! He won Chicago! Does Harrison Burton deserve a ride at HMS? He won Daytona! Just like the city street race, it's being ran on a track that most races are not ran on. Bowman has 14 laps he's ran as the leader. Burton has led 13 in inferior equipment.
As many wins as ton of other drivers including Chase.
@@Angie80sgirl you could lead many laps by going of strategy and then losing the race. Winning is that matters and gets the things done.
@@kg0173 yep and Harrison Burton. So lets talk about how great Harrison is as well!
I am huge Hendrick fan, but I my interest/care factor with Bowman is the least of the 4 drivers. His personality is just "meh" for me. He stays, fine, he goes, fine too. Have you heard Bowman's voice? Nasally annoying, lol. I am not surprised they used Jr's voice over for the TV commercial.
Bowman is safe for Hendrick. He can drive, and win.
Bowman won Chicago, he ain't no bust
so one race makes someone not a bust? I'm not buying that. Does Harrison Burton deserve an HMS ride as well? He won Daytona.
@@Angie80sgirlBowman has won 7 races before Chicago
@@Angie80sgirl And how many more cup races has Burton won?
Nascar is killing itself as a business wouldn't be surprised if we get a competitive competition to nascar in couple yrs
Hell the CEO of Ally just went to Hendrick Auto to be the CEO lol
Of course Bowman is good to say it’s not true. I don’t think the DBC guys would lie.
Thank goodness he's staying at Hendrick the next few years despite the 48 team has been struggle since early the season and the last 4 races after the break.
But, Brett Griffin once again has cause another controversy rumor on Twitter and that's why nobody listens DBC because they have become more unbearable.
@@josepedrorodriguez2376 Alex is underrated
I've seen way more of Dale Jr. in Ally commercials I don't think I have seen Bowman in one of them seems like they really like Dale Jr haha
As a bowman fan I hate all the slander that’s out there. The last year of the gen 6 car he was tied for 2nd with most wins that year. Sure he doesn’t lead all the laps that his teammates do or win as much but you can’t argue that he’s a proven winner in cup and can contend for wins on any given weekend
As a fan as well just treat it as water off a ducks back, i do. Its like a national sport on here.
2:20 if NASCAR wants teams to speak positively about them, they need to do something actually positive
Everybody tell somebody they’re not gonna fire them until they do
Bowman has been a workhorse for Hendrick in the past. He was in the simulator day after day while waiting on the 88/48 to open up. He may not be a Jeff Gordon or a Kyle Larson but he's an above average driver. He fits in well with Hendrick Motorsports.
theres as always been the 4th car at Hendrick that doesnt run as good as the other 3,Bowman is that 4th car and is doing ok was it.
Consistency is the key to NASCAR success and Bowman is consistent and does not beat himself.
In nascar manager can I crash 2 guys on the final lap and win just like Austin Dillon in real life?!?!
Probably not it's not a racing game it's a management game, none of the new games you could because they freeze the field, NASCAR Thunder 2004 you can.
In terms of Alex bowman, the only reason I see that you swap them out is because you have found a significantly better driver, or a very young driver that has a ton of potential and has sponsorship.
It's really hard to have four top-level drivers on a team. It isn't like there is an extra reddick, Larson, Hamlin, Bell, Logano or Blaney type thats available.
Bowman is solid. Yeah, he has had some wins, but I have never been sold on him. But who would you replace him with? I like guys like Haley but that's more of a lateral move.
I think you have to wait a few more years for a young driver to come up and replace him. Have to remember that it's not just a quality driver, but it is one with the right type of personality. It can't be some big loud mouth type personality. I just don't see what's available to make it worth it. At this moment
I like Bowman good guy and solid driver. Only Drivers I would replace him with if I had to is Ross or KB but both have ruffled feathers over there.
The former CEO of Ally works now for Hendricks. Very deep relationship.
Why does the Media want Alex Bowman to get out of Hendrick Motorsports? like really and I like Kyle Busch but I think he should drive for Denny Hamlin next year hopefully
I don't see the a deal for NASCAR and the teams signed anytime soon... Might get a few teams to sign, but I think most will be signing a few days before the Clash or the Daytona 500.
I’ve been watching NASCAR for 20 years. This is BY FAR, the best the 4th Hendrick car has ever ran. Bowman is good his teammates just happen to be great and that’s ok.
People just want change for the shake of change, the guy has won 8 races in 7 years. People forget jr won 9 in 10 years at the same organization, & never thought about getting booted
I'm sick of the argument of him being the 4th HMS driver. SOMEONE has to be the 4th driver, how about the guy with 8 wins who hasn't missed the playoffs in a healthy season? It's like the family guy mystery box scene, look it up if you don't know the reference
The Race Team Alliance pushed the charter system to be more like stick & ball sports. If you are a player or coach in the NFL, NBA or MLB & you criticize the officiating or the league, you will get a big fine. So they are getting what they wanted.
NASCAR: We love America and its values
Owners: Like Free Speech?
NASCAR:
Put Max Verstappen in the 48 and we will get a better comparison between Kyle Larson and him. Yes
This is coming from a fan of Alex Bowman and Kasey Kahne. The thing with Bowman is he is to HMS as what my dear Kasey Kahne was to HMS. Just like Kasey, Alex is there when very talented drivers/MPD is there. I feel like he's getting the same treatment at Hendrick. While I hope it doesn't happen, we all know how that turned out for Kasey.
Brandon Jones isn't good enough for XFINITY. Or JGR
Spire needs to get someone and fast for the 7
Hi Eric Estepp I never miss a single episode 😊❤
I was mid video when it went down, amyways amazing content as always Eric
Isn’t ally gmac.., isn’t GMAC the preferred lender with Hendricks dealerships they aren’t going anywhere
Yes
every team needs a "test pilot" to test changes
I’m a Bowman fan, and I hate that he seems to continually deal with these rumors. He’s a great driver and finished P5 today. The haters need to shut it.
Thank you for saying such good things about Bowman. I hope he stays in the 48, purple power!
So Nascar is going Chic Fil A route with the smile and wave motto, if that no negativity allowed comes to be true? That's not cool.
When he healthy . Why do we always say when . Alex is up . U will not hear it till end season
...the dude has 8 career wins & was leading the points last year before his back injury effectively ended his season, not to mention coming within a bumper of winning the Daytona 500 this year!... Alex deserves better respect!...
This is my question for people who say, but Bowman won a race! He won Chicago! Does Harrison Burton deserve a ride at HMS? He won Daytona! Just like the city street race, it's being ran on a track that most races are not ran on. Bowman has 14 laps he's ran as the leader for the entire 2024 season. Burton has led 13 laps in inferior equipment. Anyone who says Bowman isn't bringing up the rear in the top equipment in NASCAR is just wrong. Bowman seems to get the biggest pass of any NASCAR driver and that includes Eric.
😂 I am a Corey Lajoy fan and I knew you were joking when you put that clip in.
At this point, I can only hope that the 19 truck helps him win and put some consideration for Big time cup rides in the future.
From an OG who saw the original 😉