NASCAR GIBBS SEEKING BREAKTHROUGH AT BRISTOL

Hamlin, Kyle Busch fastest in practice, a sign slump may end.

BRISTOL, TENN. — Joe Gibbs Racing had three victories at this point last season, including back-to-back wins by Kyle Busch. Then Carl Edwards reeled off consecutive victories and the organization was easily the best in NASCAR.

Now? The team is winless through the first seven races of the season and looking to break the drought Sunday at Bristol Motor Speedway.

“I would have to say that obviously we’re not as strong this year out of the gate,” Busch said Friday, when qualifying was rained out. “I feel as though we’re competitive and we’re close, but we’re not there. I don’t think there’s any reason for cause for concern yet.”

The speed chart Friday indicated JGR may be on the right track.

Toyota drivers took five of the first six spots in practice, three from JGR and two from sister team Furniture Row Racing. Denny Hamlin and Busch had the best 10 consecutive lap averages on the .533-mile track, the true indicator of who has the strongest cars.

It was an important showing because the forecast calls for more rain and no one is certain when the cars will next be on the track. So most drivers treated Friday afternoon as if it was their only time to prepare for the race.

The rain meant the grid was set by points. It gave Kyle Larson the pole with Chase Elliott right next to him. The JGR cars will start seventh (Busch), 16th (Hamlin),