Continuing a tradition that began in 2010, Michael Waltrip Racing will field entry sporting a paint scheme honoring this year's BCS National Champions at Sunday's Aaron's 499 at the Talladega Superspeedway. This weekend's ride is Clint Bowyer's No. 15 Toyota, which usually carries sponsorship from 5-Hour Energy. This weekend he sports Alabama's trademark crimson and white colors on his Camry, which will carry sponsorship from Atlanta-based Aaron's Sales and Leases - the event sponsor.
In addition to carrying the Roll Tide paint scheme, Bowyer will wear a tribute of his own this weekend. He has been noteworthy for having racing helmets that featured images of Elvis Presley and racing icon Smokey Yunick. This weekend, the helmet is emblazoned with a portrait of legendary University of Alabama head coach Paul "Bear" Bryant."
Bowyer posted this image of the helmet to Twitter. Even as someone with little to no knowledge of collegiate sports, I have to concur with him that it is pretty sweet. Only he obviously didn't say sweet.
As for the car, its paint scheme can be viewed here. Scroll down, trust me, you won't miss it.
Alabama fans who would like to add a miniature replica of the No. 15 to their shrine or buy a commemorative T-shirt or ballcap can visit the NASCAR.com Superstore's University of Alabama Collection page. The 1/64 diecasts are the same size as a Hot Wheels car, while 1/24-scale diecast are much bigger and much more detailed (hence the much higher price).
Finally, for anyone wondering, it was David Reutimann's No. 00 Toyota that started the Michael Waltrip Racing/Aaron's/National Champion tradition in 2010, carrying the Crimson Tide paint scheme. Last year, Waltrip himself drove the No. 15 car with an Auburn University scheme. Reutimann's car can be seen here (again, scroll down, you won't miss it I promise) and Waltrip's can be viewed here.