NASCAR Cup Series: Reviewing the first four drivers out of the playoffs

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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 30: Erik Jones, driver of the #20 Reser’s Toyota(Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

Erik Jones

Erik Jones is a youngster with a lot of hope coming into this year’s playoff. Personally, I had him moving to the round of 12, but I had my doubts. The perfect way to sum up his elimination is “a slight surprise, but not a shocker”.

Jones, who earned his first career NASCAR Cup Series win in early July in the race at Daytona, International Speedway, has shown flashes of confidence and growth throughout the second half of his second full season.

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Ahead of the playoffs, Jones was looking to make a name for himself with a run of five top 10 finishes in the last six regular season races. His worst finish in that stretch was 13th place in the race at Michigan International Speedway, and his best was second in the race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Momentum or not, Jones hit a standstill during the playoffs. He finished in 40th place in the race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway after being involved in a crash with fellow playoff contender Kevin Harvick. An 11th place finish at Richmond Raceway wasn’t enough to level out his misfortune.

Much like Hamlin, Jones was in a must-win situation at the Charlotte Motor Speedway roval, and he finished in 30th place.

In my opinion, Jones has grown a lot this season, and he has nothing to be ashamed of. He has a bright future and is a driver who has all the talent in the world.

Jones was eliminated because of misfortune, not bad performance. Honestly, I can’t ask him to change anything. He has had speed and success, but he needs a little luck on his side.

dark. Next. NASCAR Playoffs: Pros and Cons

Thanks for reading, folks! I hope you enjoyed this weekend’s events and are gearing up for some excitement from Dover International Speedway this weekend! See you next time!

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