Brian Vickers...from the pole to the rear

Last night, Brian Vickers clenched the 6th pole of his career for the Auto Club 500. This was the best thing that could have happened for Brian after he was wrecked last weekend from contact by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Now it seems Brian may have a black cloud following him. After qualifying, the team noticed a problem with the engine and opted to change power plants. As a result, Brian will start from the rear of the field in Sunday's race.

Brian is still credited with the pole and retains the first choice of pit stalls. When Vickers drops to the rear on Sunday, each of the cars on the inside row each will move forward, putting McMurray in the pole position for the start of the race.