The words "we're putting the band back together" always provokes a warm, fuzzy feeling in me.

When there were seven or eight organizations that could win on any given weekend -- instead of four -- assembling the right crew chief, chassis guy, shock engineer and driver could provide instead results.

That's not the case with the new car. Finding the sweet spot on this car is similar to hitting a moving target.

Even if the best band of racers -- and we're talking the equivalent of the Mount Rushmore of the garage - tried to build the perfect car under these conditions, without the resources of a Roush Fenway Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Richard Childress Racing or Joe Gibbs Racing any attempt would be futile.

So when someone suggested the possibility of Rusty Wallace returning to competition, I became nostalgic. Rusty was my first NASCAR interview way back when. The initial buzz had Wallace, 52, driving for Dale Earnhardt Inc. or Chip Ganassi Racing -- both teams in need of sponsorship. I asked around. When I tracked down Kenny Wallace for quotes for a story that he'll be driving the No. 00 this weekend for Michael Waltrip Racing, I had to ask: C'mon Herman, inquiring minds want to know. Well, my homey from The Lou (St. Louis, our hometown) swore me to secrecy.

So imagine my surprise when I was sent this link

Well folks, there it is. Rusty wants back in a car. While my conversation with Herm was off the record, and we will keep it there, I will weigh in on the obvious: Rusty the driver was a success. Rusty the owner has struggled. I can't imagine what his fabrication bill must be a month with son Steve behind the wheel. It's painful to listen to the Nationwide Series race when the No. 66 Chevrolet is involved in an altercation. It's as if broadcasters that get paid to speak are suddenly at a loss for words.

Certainly, a former champion such as Rusty still has broad appeal. Even in an economy this dire, it's likely he could attract sponsorship - if he hasn't already. Over the coming weeks, Wallace's plans will become clearer.

You might have to find Herman for the answers though...