The Top Story Lines Heading into NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Richmond

Outside of the season-opening Daytona 500, there is arguably no other race on the Sprint Cup regular-season schedule that generates as much excitement as the fall race at Richmond International Raceway.

This year is no exception. The final race before NASCAR's Chase for the Sprint Cup championship commences is important for several different race teams for varying reasons.

Those at the top of the point standings are jockeying for the most favorable seeding positions entering the 10-race Chase. Those not yet locked in—only seven drivers have officially clinched Chase berths heading into the Federated Auto Parts 400—are looking to secure their shot at the 2013 title. A total of 10 drivers still remain mathematically in the hunt for the final five of the 12 Chase berths, which will include the top 10 in points after Saturday night's race and two wild-card entries (drivers with the most wins and most points not in the top 10), according to SportingNews.com

Let the questions begin, with the answers to follow when the checkered flag is claimed late Saturday night.

Begin Slideshow