NASCAR at Talladega 2015 Qualifying Results: Race Order, Final Times, Reaction

Jeff Gordon will start on the pole for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series' Geico 500 at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday after putting together the best qualifying performance.

Starting near the front of the field is always preferred, of course. That said, it's certainly important when the series visits the popular tri-oval in Alabama. NASCAR Stats highlighted the success of cars starting inside the top 10:

Here's a look at the drivers who will enjoy that distinction this week via NASCAR.com, where full qualifying results can be found:

Rank	Driver	Best Speed	Best Time	Behind
1	Jeff Gordon	194.793	49.160	-
2	Kasey Kahne	193.685	49.441	0.281
3	Ryan Blaney	193.611	49.460	0.300
4	Dale Earnhardt Jr.	193.599	49.463	0.303
5	Jimmie Johnson	193.427	49.507	0.347
6	Tony Stewart	193.419	49.509	0.349
7	Paul Menard	193.412	49.511	0.351
8	Matt Kenseth	193.357	49.525	0.365
9	David Ragan	193.006	49.615	0.455
10	Clint Bowyer	192.808	49.666	0.506

The format for determining the field was changed for the race. Instead of using the group concept, it was solo timing over one lap. While it lessened the margin for error, it took away some of the risk and weird strategy that was required.

Bob Pockrass of ESPN further explained the change:

ESPN The Magazine's Ryan McGee passed along comments from Dale Earnhardt Jr. about the switch:

Everything moved along smoothly. There was definitely more of a qualifying feel to the proceedings. Drivers were able to push their cars a little harder without having to worry about getting caught up in the field and possibly wrecking.

Fox Sports NASCAR passed along the top 12 after the first round:

Popular Speed broke down the group by manufacturer:

Even when given another opportunity in Round 2, nobody could come anywhere close to Jeff Gordon. He was easily the fastest car on the track during qualifying, and there were no hiccups during the second run to prevent him from earning the pole.

Talladega Superspeedway noted the qualifying outcome:

Although qualifying success doesn't always translate to race day, it would be hard to consider anybody other than Gordon the favorite. His car was lightning quick Saturday and similar conditions are expected tomorrow.

He could definitely use a strong finish, and perhaps even a victory, to kick-start his campaign. He currently sits in 10th place, 94 points off the pace being set by Kevin Harvick. He needs to start finding a groove in his final full-time season.

Based on his qualifying at Talladega, a much-needed win may be on the horizon.