It seems to me like nascar is becoming more competitive. JTG Daugherty is now essentially another CGR. Leavine switched to 'Yoda & DiBurritto has shown speed all race long. FRM has had some good runs as well, including a top 5 in the 500. They look more racey than last year. 
Finally, Roush has actually been consistently in the top 10 every week. Stenhouse finished 6th last week & Newman was in the top 6 early on in this race. The #1 team with Kurt Busch will also be way more competitive, he's a major upgrade over McMurray.
Don't forget RCR. They replaced Newman with Hemric & seem poised to make a leap this year. They've shown plenty of speed. Ty Dillon is running the same equipment & is having a solid day.