The Chase field has been cut down to 12 drivers, but the pressure is still on those who remain in contention for the 2014 Sprint Cup championship. A win in Sunday’s Hollywood Casino 400 would guarantee the winner a spot in the next round.
Anything less could be a cause for worry.
While no driver is likely without worry heading into Sunday’s race at Kansas Speedway, Kevin Harvick should be the most comfortable. He dialed up a great performance in the final qualifying run to grab the pole position.
Harvick has been awesome in qualifying runs this season. The pole was his eighth of the year and third in a row in Kansas. What’s the secret to his success on this track?
Per Jared Turner of Fox Sports, Harvick said:
“For whatever reason, this fits everything I have going on with my driving style, but in the end it’s about having fast cars.”
Harvick certainly has a fast car. His best speed was 197.6 miles per hour in the qualifying run. Can he turn the pole into a win on Sunday? Here’s how you can watch.
Where: Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas
When: Sunday, Oct. 5, at 2 p.m. ET
Watch: ESPN
Live Steam: WatchESPN
Radio: Motor Racing Network
Drivers to Watch
Harvick
After winning the pole, Harvick is clearly one to monitor.
He currently sits third in the Sprint Cup standings, but if there’s ever been a spot for him to make a significant move it’s Sunday’s race.
His recent history on this track suggests Sunday could be his day. Harvick won the event last year after leading 138 of the 267 laps. He held off Kurt Busch on that day and would love to grab another big win.
Gordon is a battler. Despite having some injuries throughout the year, Gordon held the points lead much of the season, and he captured the checkered flag last week at the AAA 400 at Dover International Speedway.
Gordon won on this track earlier this year and is the only three-time winner in the Sunflower State on the Sprint Cup circuit. Gordon has also recorded 12 top-10 finishes in 17 starts this season.
Another win on Sunday would make Gordon the favorite to win the Chase.
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