Emory Healthcare 500

Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, Ga.

First-time caller: Tony Stewart hadn’t won in nearly a year.

Next in line? Carl Edwards hasn’t won since 2008, but his average finish has been fifth in the past eight races.

That old-time feeling: Surprise! Jimmie Johnson (third) is rounding into shape with the Chase on the horizon.

Room for error: Denny Hamlin can’t possibly miss the Chase, which was a good thing … since engine failure relegated him to last place (43^rd) in this race.

Notable numbers

            0 – Races Jeff Burton has failed to finish.

            7 – Races Juan Pablo Montoya has failed to finish.

            25 – Bonus points for Carl Edwards this year.

            115 – Bonus points for Jimmie Johnson this year.

            3,585 – Sprint Cup leader Kevin Harvick’s point total.

Quotable quotes

            “Being realistic, we've got to get running better to be a legitimate threat.” – Matt Kenseth.

            “Things haven't been as good as they could be or should be, but the last eight weeks we've had more points than anyone else. I think we can win the championship.” – Carl Edwards.

            “That's how we're going to run the Chase: give it everything we got. It's showtime and we've got to lay it all on the line.” – Jeff Burton.

“These fans in Atlanta … This was a heartbreak year for these guys knowing they're going to lose a race this year.” – Tony Stewart.