Still with a lot to learn about NASCAR's top series, Aric Almirola will journey down south where he will participate in the Amp Energy 500 at Talladega Superspeedway.

He has made two starts at the venue finishing 30th and a 33rd in those two attempts.

"The first thing I learned about Talladega is never to make a prediction and always expect the unexpected," said Almirola. "I was okay with my performances in the last two Talladega races and feel if we can avoid the wrecks and mechanical failures, the Army Chevy Impala SS will be running in the lead pack. I am looking to deliver a strong race for our Soldiers."

With the No. 8 U.S. Army Chevrolet currently sitting at the 15th spot in the owners points, Almirola is pleased with how the season has unfolded.

"I am pleased with the progress that we've made this year," stated Almirola. "This is a good team -- we're 15th in owner points and only 50 points away from 13th. I am looking forward to finishing off the season with some strong results."

Luck didn't seem to be on his side during both runs at the superspeedway, but crew chief Tony Gibson has confidence in the part time driver.

"Aric has done an outstanding job at Talladega for making only two starts there," noted Gibson. "We're confident that if we can avoid the Talladega mess we're going to have a good day."

Alimrola's season next year is on the line as no definate sponsor has stepped up and made the commitment to put their logo on the No. 8 Chevrolet. The Army is said to be migrating to Stewart Haas Racing in order to sponsor Ryan Newman next year, leaving Almirola with no financial backing for 2009. With only two more races on his schedule for 2008, Almirola needs to perform strong in order to catch a sponsor's eye.