NASCAR: 5 drivers who need a quick start at Darlington and Charlotte

DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 09: A majority of the drivers in the field are involved in an on-track incident during the NASCAR Cup Series Busch Clash at Daytona International Speedway on February 09, 2020 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

4 of 6

Erik Jones, Joe Gibbs Racing, NASCAR (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

Erik Jones

In the first four races of the 2020 season, Erik Jones and the #20 team have lacked speed. This has been a common issue for the Joe Gibbs Racing cars. Outside of Denny Hamlin’s win at Daytona International Speedway, they have not been up front contending for wins like they usually are.

Jones currently sits 21st place in the championship standings, 13 points behind Kurt Busch in the 16th and final playoff transfer spot. Getting off to a quick start will be important for him to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot.

This is a contract year for Jones. He signed a one-year extension last year, and this could be a “prove it” type of deal after winning one race in each of his first two seasons driving for the team. With Christopher Bell lurking at the Joe Gibbs Racing-affiliated Leavine Family Racing, Jones needs to start running up front and winning some races.

Luckily for him, the first two races back are at Darlington Raceway, the site of his most recent win. He won the Southern 500 in September of last year.

Jones and crew chief Chris Gayle are looking to repeat their success from last year at Darlington Raceway this weekend and next week. If they do find themselves in victory lane on Sunday or Wednesday, they may find themselves at Joe Gibbs Racing for years to come.

Home/NASCAR Cup Series