Bowyer, Newman hold last two slots
After seeing big swings on the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series playoff grid the last few weeks, things stayed relatively static after the Gander RV 400 at Pocono Raceway.
At the top, Denny Hamlin’s third win of the season Sunday padded his playoff points total. His Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Kyle Busch also added a point to his already rich collection by winning a stage.
At the bottom, Erik Jones not only jumped up a spot but added to his cushion on the cutline with a secondplace finish. Kyle Larson also increased his advantage, while it’s now Clint Bowyer and Ryan Newman in a tie for the final spot.
Jimmie Johnson is within striking distance to make the postseason on points as he gained five on those above him. For everyone else, it’s about time to win or look toward next year.
Here is the playoff grid as it currently stands with five races to go, with a reminder the grid will be reseeded at the end of the regular season when additional points are awarded to the top 10. Joey Logano is the overall championship points leader.
Kyle Busch: 4 race wins, 28 playoff points
Martin Truex Jr.: 4 race wins, 22 playoff points
Denny Hamlin: 3 race wins, 18 playoff points
Brad Keselowski: 3 race wins, 19 playoff points
Joey Logano: 2 race wins, 17 playoff points
Kevin Harvick: 1 race win, 9 playoff points
Kurt Busch: 1 race win, 6 playoff points
Chase Elliott: 1 race win, 7 playoff points
Alex Bowman: 1 race win, 5 playoff points
Aric Almirola: +94 on cutoff, 1 playoff point
Ryan Blaney: +79 on cutoff, 2 playoff points
William Byron: +62 on cutoff, 1 playoff point
Erik Jones: +39 on cutoff, 0 playoff points
Kyle Larson: +37 on cutoff, 3 playoff points
Clint Bowyer: +12 on cutoff, 0 playoff points
Ryan Newman: +12 on cutoff, 0 playoff points
Below the cutoff line is Jimmie Johnson (-12), Daniel Suarez (-31), Paul Menard (-68) and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (-88).