Story By: Richard Thomas
File Photos By: Hal Jalikakik
Richmond, VA–
They always say things happen when the lights go down, well this Saturday, that will be exactly what happens when NASCAR returns to Richmond for the Federated Auto Parts 400 and plenty of drivers will be hungry to get that win to secure their trip for the remainder of the ride towards the Monster Cup Trophy
Just ask drivers like Joey Logano, who won at Richmond earlier this year, but due to a rear suspension violation, the win was negated, leaving him on the bubble to make it to the finals. He hopes that his car can take him to Victory Lane again this weekend, but short of winning, Logano may find himself on the outside looking in this weekend. He is currently a 20/1 favorite in Las Vegas odds to win the race Saturday.
Look for Aric Almirola to make a run at Richmond this weekend along with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. Both drivers need all the help they can get an a victory here this weekend will make the remainder of the season that much more worth racing for.
On the Xfinity Series side of things there are a few of note.
Brendan Gaughan is working his way into the championship, but has two drivers that are just 20 and 23 points behind him in Dakota Armstrong and Michael Annett. The Las Vegas native does not have a win this season, but is seasoned enough to work his way into contention and put both of those guys out after Friday night.
Virginia native Elliott Sadler can clinch the regular season championship in the race. He will need to hold a 61-point lead over second-place after the race to claim the title with one race remaining. He is currently 91 points ahead of second. Even though he doesn’t have a win this season, the regular season title comes with 15 playoff points – the equivalent of winning three races.
