8 Days to Daytona: #77 Spire Motorsports

The DIRTcar Nationals has kicked off at Volusia Speedway Park, which means Daytona Speedweeks has unofficially begun. With 8 Days to Daytona left until the NASCAR Cup Series arrives, Daytona is about to become a busy place. One of the busiest teams during 2023 was Spire Motorsports. In addition to their acquisitions, Carson Hocevar was called up from the Craftsman Truck Series to drive the #77 Spire Motorsports entry. Will the rookie help bring the 77 closer to the 7 in performance?

#77 Spire Motorsports

Driver: Carson Hocevar

Crew Chief: Luke Lambert

Sponsors: Gainbridge, Ziegler Auto Group, Delaware Life, Premiere Security Solutions, NationsGuard

2024 Season Preview

Favorite for Rookie of the Year?

The NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year battle will be between Carson Hocevar, Josh Berry, and Zane Smith. Many expect Berry to claim that title this year, as he is in (allegedly) the best equipment out of the three. However, there is a strong argument to be made that Carson Hocevar should be the favorite. All three rookies have experience in the NextGen car. Outside of when Berry drove the 9 car, Hocevar had the most impressive runs between the trio. The 42 Legacy Motor Club entry was a dumpster fire for most of 2023. However, Hocevar routinely ran that car inside the Top-20. Plus, Hocevar looked sporty when he filled in for Corey LaJoie in the 7. While Berry might be the betting favorite, Hocevar might be the better bet.

New Villain Figure Emerges

While it is pretty clear that Carson Hocevar has talent, the big issue for the young driver will be his driving style. Somewhere between Xfinity Ty Gibbs and Ross Chastain lies Hocevar. He is willing to use the bumper to pass, but stays somewhat apologetic for it. However, that racing style will not bode well for him in the Cup Series. Gibbs managed to keep his questionable tactics to a minimum in 2023. Can Hocevar do the same? Even in his limited action last year, Hocevar ruffled some feathers, especially at Martinsville. Hocevar will need to reign it in if he wants a drama free rookie season.

Compete with the 7

Since Spire Motorsports expanded to two fulltime entries, the 77 car has been the afterthought of the group. 2022 was a year of various drivers taking their turn in the car. That resulted in a 33rd points finish. Last year, Ty Dillon served as the fulltime driver and managed to finish in the same spot (but with 7 less points). While Spire is spending all the money to expand their operations, it is concerning that the 77 remained a back marker. The 7 car demonstrated significant improvement. Could it be down the driver? Maybe, but it seems like an equipment issue. Hopefully, Spire spent some serious money to improve the outlook for the 77.

Daytona 500 Chances

Days to Daytona: #77 Spire Motorsports - Carson Hocevar — Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images

Carson Hocevar made one start on a superspeedway in the 42 car. It resulted in a wreck after an aggressive push from Brad Keselowski. In his Craftsman Truck Series career, Daytona was Hocevar’s best superspeedway. He went 3-for-3 in finishing on the lead lap, including a Top-5 in his first race. His worst finish at Daytona was 12th. Will that translate over to the Cup Series? Probably not, but it is worth noting.

Speedweeks Outlook

Barring an foreseen improvement, do not expect Carson Hocevar to put up a monster qualifying lap come Valentines Day. Until proven otherwise, Spire’s secondary (and tertiary) car(s) are not expected to carry much speed. Given his reputation, it will be interesting to see who will draft with Hocevar during the Bluegreen Vacations Duel. Once again, the lack of practice prior to the duels might see rookies ride around to get drafting practice. Without being a proven drafter in Cup, Hocevar will likely be left aside toward the end of the Daytona 500. If he finishes well, it is likely due to a last lap wreck.