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With Nextel becoming the sponsor of the Cup Series in 2004, NASCAR introduced a new points system as well.

The top-ten drivers in points after 26 races go on to battle it out for the championship over the last ten races of the season.

MB2 Motorsports drier Joe Nemechek missed the Chase field and was only racing for pride during the last ten races in 2004. The only bright spot in his season was grabbing the pole the week before at Talladega. Along with his own Busch Series team, Nemechek ran double-duty at Kansas. Continue reading →