Win and you’re in

          NASCAR use to bring feel good stories when a guy got his first win. The storyline has now changed with the current playoff format. The storyline turns into a driver making the playoffs and getting a chance at a championship no matter what position they were in. This is the Harrison Burton saga. Harrison Burton won last night, making a last lap pass on Kyle Busch and then throwing some precise blocks to hang on and get the first win of his career. It also comes after news that Harrison wouldn’t be returning to the 21 Wood Brothers Ford, so that’s one way to go out with the team at your last Daytona race together. Also like I said he now qualifies for the championship but there’s just one thing. Harrison is the lowest running driver points wise that can qualify for the playoffs at 34th. Let’s get into it here.

       For starters, let’s congratulate Harrison on his first career Cup victory. This one came at a time that he needed it considering he is still looking for a ride for next year. This was also needed for the Wood Brothers after all that they have been through since their last win. Good feel good story on both ends as they prepare for a split at the end of this year. 

      Now it’s time to talk about the points situation. Harrison currently sits 34th in points but because of this win, that won’t matter when the playoffs start as he will be locked in. This is what I have a problem with. I don’t think a driver 34th in points should be able to lock into the playoffs because he won a race. The rule was adjusted from top 30 to win and you’re in to make a situation like this possible but I think this isn’t the way to seed a championship field. This being the second time in 3 weeks where we’ve had a race winner that’s deep in points, this point format is being tested. I don’t think the playoffs are going anywhere but do want to see a change. I’m not saying that winning a cup race is an easy task, but I would like points to matter more in terms of how guys can lock in. 

      With this win, another spot in the playoff grid is filled and it all comes down to Darlington. 14th through 16th on the grid are up for grabs next Sunday as Martin Truex Jr (+58), Ty Gibbs (+39), and Chris Buescher (+21) are the 3 drivers above the cut line and Bubba Wallace (-21), and Ross Chastain (-27) are the two below that could point in.  As always someone could also win the race and take away a position and shake up things even more. We will find out soon. Until then enjoy your Sunday.

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