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

15^th or better, no laps led

17^th or better, at least one lap led

19^th 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.