Consecutive DNQs cannot break Morgan Lucas’ confidence.

“Last weekend was just a growing pain for us,” Lucas said. “We run a different combination than Rahn [Tobler] is used to running. We are just taking some time for him to get used to it and get acclimated with how it works.

“Lance and Rahn are working well together. They are having fun. I think when everything begins working as it should – it will be a perfect fit. I just think that over time we will get the data we need. That’s all we need.

Consecutive DNQs cannot break Morgan Lucas’ confidence.

“Last weekend was just a growing pain for us,” Lucas said. “We run a different combination than Rahn [Tobler] is used to running. We are just taking some time for him to get used to it and get acclimated with how it works.

“Lance and Rahn are working well together. They are having fun. I think when everything begins working as it should – it will be a perfect fit. I just think that over time we will get the data we need. That’s all we need.

Atlanta created a few problems and a shortened qualifying program in St. Louis created tougher-than-usual outings for the Lucas Oil team.

“We just got behind the eight-ball in Atlanta and couldn’t seem to get around it. It was one of those races where if you didn’t go down. People think I get bummed about it … but I’m not. I have so much confidence in Rahn and Lance and the future is where my thoughts are.

“Sometimes you have to take a step back to take two forward,” Lucas said. “The key to success is by being patient. We were patient last year and we are being patient right now. I think it is going to pay off.”

Lucas admits this optimism comes from the fact his team reached the semifinals in Vegas. Despite missing the field this weekend, he still feels very much in the championship chase with the new playoff format.

“It can play into my favor,” Lucas said. “You can be like Tony Schumacher and win every race, but then lose out early in the Countdown and not make it down to the end. Your championship season could be over by the time you get to Vegas.”

J.R. Todd may be openly discussing his aspirations of one day driving a flopper, but Lucas is still keeping an open mind about it. He’s pointed out on more than one occasion that he’d like to give it a whirl.
“If I get a spare chance to drive one, believe me, I’m going to do it,” Lucas said. “I love Funny Cars. They are cool looking. They’re fast just like dragsters except maybe more of a handful to drive. It seems like the more dangerous things are – the more fun they are for me.”

Lucas would also like to go skydiving. Better try Funny Cars first.

“Maybe I am just trying to push my luck,” Lucas said. “I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of one of those things. Maybe I can make a career out of it one day like John Force.”

The loss of friend Eric Medlen reminds Lucas of the inherent dangers.

“It does and doesn’t spook me,” Lucas said. “That was the first time something like that has happened in a while. With what’s happened with tires in the past … which isn’t Goodyear’s fault … I just think we are starting to make too much power.

“If I let something like that bother me, it would affect me in the dragster, too. They both make the same amount of power and they are as violent as they can be in a situation like that. I don’t think Eric would want that. I don’t think anyone at John Force Racing would want that either. I think the biggest thing is making them safer and working in that direction.

“I hate that it had to come to his. John Force is going to lead the way in Funny car safety. I made it clear to Eric that I wanted to drive one.”