Kevin Harvick has never won a Cup race at Pocono, where in 26 starts he’s managed to lead only five laps. But his Stewart-Haas Chevrolet has been fast this weekend.
Harvick was the leader in Coors Pole Qualifying until late laps by Hamlin, Kurt Busch and Keselowski forced him to settle for fourth on Friday. Saturday, Harvick posted the fastest time in morning practice (177.291 mph), recorded the best average for 10 consecutive laps (175.462) and led the field again in final practice (175.606).
Keselowski and Brian Vickers were the only other drivers to top 177 mph in the morning session. Kurt Busch was second in the afternoon, followed by Jimmie Johnson, who qualified 20th.
Series points leader Matt Kenseth, still looking for his first victory of the season, finally found some speed. Twenty-sixth in qualifying, Kenseth was 27th in the morning practice but improved to eighth-fastest in final practice.
Also, Aric Almirola blew an engine in the final practice session. He will start at the rear of the field Sunday after originally qualifying 22nd.
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