This week’s power rankings probably look familiar.
Barring unusual circumstances, you don’t like to change the order after an exhibition. Christopher Bell won the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro, but frankly, there was only one available spot for him to advance in our pecking order. And we’re not ready to dislodge Kyle Larson just yet, though C-Bell is making quite a case this season.
We also don’t like changing the order after a “plate race” at Daytona, Talladega or Atlanta. But that’s another story entirely.
There’s a big week ahead and a lot of miles to cover — 600 of them at Charlotte’s Coca-Cola 600. So this thing could really be shaken up by next week.
1. Kyle Larson
One eye on the Doppler this week.
2. Christopher Bell
Won race, irritated Joey. Kinda like a BOGO deal.
3. Ryan Blaney
Last three Coke 600s: Crash, win, crash.
4. William Byron
This is pretty shocking: The 24 car hasn’t won a Coke 600 since 1998.
5. Chase Elliott
Winless streak at 39 — 44 if you count All-Stars, All-Star heat, Clash and Daytona Duel.
6. Joey Logano
Has probably recovered from being so “roughed up” at North Wilkesboro.
7. Denny Hamlin
1-for-33 on the Charlotte quad-oval.
8. Ross Chastain
Camping out in the top-10 most weekends this year.
9. Chase Briscoe
Shares hometown (Mitchell, Ind.) with early astronaut Gus Grissom.
10. Chris Buescher
His career-best at Charlotte is a sixth. Better on the Roval.
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