"Statistically, Steve Wallace is a model of determination and progress.

He has improved with each passing year, and currently ranks in the top 10 in the NASCAR Nationwide Series standings.

Wallace is also enjoying a career year statistically, and has made a large leap over the same juncture last season.

Through 10 races this year, Wallace has improved in:

--Average Finish: 18.3 compared to 21.4 at this point last season;

--Driver Rating: 81.3 compared to 73.0 last year;

--Average Running Position: 16.4 compared to 20.4 one year ago;

--Laps in the Top 15 percentage: 62% compared to 26.5% last season;

--Pass Differential (passes minus times passed): 79 compared to 45 last year.

Arguably one stat might shine the brightest light on Wallace’s maturation process: Percentage of Laps Run on the Lead Lap.  Early on in his career, Wallace often would get tangled in accidents and other problems.  Those have decreased this season.

In 2008, Wallace ran just 61% of the laps on the lead lap through 10 races. This season through 10 events, that number has climbed to 72%."