JOHNSON ROLLING IN FULL SPRINT

The Chase for the Sprint Cup begins in three weeks, and Jimmie Johnson is finally feeling like he could be in the hunt for another title. The six-time Sprint Cup champion qualified second Friday for Sunday’s Pure Michigan 400 at Michigan International Speedway and believes his race team is rounding into championship form as the big races loom on the horizon. “I do believe we’re showing signs,” said Johnson, driver of the No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet. “I’m living it, so I guess I’m looking for those little rays of light and maybe others don’t see it. I have been able to win championships having a slow summer. My best tracks really are in those final 10 events. We hope we’re heating up and we’re just getting hot.” Johnson felt that starting up front was essential for success at MIS. “Ever since the (2011) repave at Michigan, track position has been much more important,” Johnson said. “In the past, good Fridays have led to good Sundays, so we’ll see.”