Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Clinch Scenarios For Each Driver Heading Into Atlanta

Two Chase Spots Locked Up…Who’s Next?
Kevin Harvick and Jeff Gordon have already clinched berths in the 2010 Chase. A number of drivers can add their names to that coveted list. Leaving Atlanta, a driver must be 196 points ahead of 13th place to officially clinch a spot in the Chase. A few seem likely to do that; others have a chance; still others might have to wait until Richmond to cement a spot. Here’s the breakdown:
 
Sure Things?
There’s no such thing as a sure thing. But these guys are as close as it gets. Below are the finishing positions each driver would need to guarantee a Chase spot this weekend, regardless of how any other driver finishes:
 
Kyle Busch
40th or better, no laps led
42nd or better, at least one lap led
43rd or better, most laps led
 
Carl Edwards
21st or better, no laps led
23rd or better, at least one lap led
25th or better, most laps led
 
Denny Hamlin
20th or better, no laps led
22nd or better, at least one lap led
23rd or better, most laps led
 
Likely Candidates
Here are a few drivers who have a better than average shot at clinching this weekend:
 
Tony Stewart
19th or better, no led
21st or better, at least one lap led
23rd or better, most laps led
 
Jeff Burton
17th or better, no laps led
19th or better, at least one lap led
21st or better, most laps led
 
Matt Kenseth
15th or better, no laps led
17th or better, at least one lap led
19th or better, most laps led
 
There’s Always Richmond
Finally here are the remaining drivers who can clinch this weekend. They may have to wait until Richmond to lock up their spot:
 
Jimmie Johnson
10th or better, no laps led
11th or better, at least one lap led
13th or better, most laps led
 
Kurt Busch
9th or better, no laps led
10th or better, at least one lap led
11th or better, most laps led
 
Greg Biffle
4th or better, no laps led
5th or better, at least one lap led
7th or better, most laps led
 
Clint Bowyer
Currently 100 points ahead of 13th, Bowyer would need to gain 96 points. Therefore, there is no finish that would guarantee a Chase spot. He would need to finish strong, and get some help.
 

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