Mike DiNova-USA TODAY Sports
Each week, BeyondTheFlag.com will bring you the NASCAR Power Rankings heading into the upcoming event on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Schedule. The results will be derived from both season-to-date performance as well as the finish order from the most recent event. Be sure to check back each week to see if your favorite driver made the list, and to let us know if you agree or disagree!
Expect the unexpected heading to Talladega. Matt Kenseth and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. are each in a must-win situation in order to advance to the Eliminator round. Only one of them can possibly do so, and that isn’t even guaranteed. The very real possibility exists that they will both not advance. For those fans wanting to present the trophy to Earnhardt, Jr. right now – stop. He’s not his dad. Never has been, never will be and doesn’t want to be. Dad is gone and is never coming back. Get over it.
New (or returning) to the list this week: 48
Dropping off the list this week: 43
Honorable Mention
Power Rankings