Denny Hamlin: Wins Talladega Pole

Hamlin won the pole for the GEICO 500 NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway Saturday. He turned a fast lap of 180.751 mph.

Analysis:

The Joe Gibbs Racing star flexed his muscles and easily advanced into the final round of qualifying Saturday at Talladega Superspeedway. Hamlin edged Aric Almirola to claim the top starting spot for Sunday's 500-mile battle. It was his first pole of the season and 37th of his career. Hamlin is a two-time Talladega winner and will be a top contender to win the GEICO 500.