NASCAR Cup Series Power Rankings: Bell Breaks Through at Darlington

Christopher Bell finally broke through at Darlington Raceway on Sunday night, vaulting to second in the NASCAR Cup Series standings with a win and an important points swing in The Chase. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver got the grip he needed by taking four fresh tires for the final run to the checkered flag. With 12 laps remaining, he overtook Kyle Larson for the lead and then held on as Toyota swept the top three. Bell’s victory boosts his championship push heading into Gateway, where Denny Hamlin still carries the lead despite finishing 18th after contact in the final stage. The Chase has nine races left to decide the champion.