Ashley claiming his second title, though, is likely nothing more than a formality, as Payne faces two huge obstacles: first, he would need for Ashley

ADVERTISEMENT

to either DNQ or suffer another first-round loss; second, even if Ashley were to skip the Las Vegas event, Payne would need to set at least one half of the Pro Mod Challenge performance record at a facility considered to be an "altitude track" (Las Vegas Motor Speedway is 2,100 feet above sea level).

Without setting at least one record, the maximum number of points Payne could earn in Las Vegas would be 516, or 76 points short of the minimum number needed to pass Ashley.

O'Reilly Fall Nationals eliminations results (winner on top)

T. Patterson 6.119, 231.79
Doug Palmer 6.308, 225.33

Glen Kerunsky 6.133, 229.31
Mike Bell Red-light

Steve Engel 6.213, 233.08
Mike Moran 8.533, 117.52

Jay Payne 6.073, 236.88
Brandon Pesz 6.242, 226.20

Semifinals

Steve Engel 6.210, 233.12
Glen Kerunsky 9.835, 90.13

T. Patterson 6.112, 232.67
Jay Payne 6.087, 236.38

Final

T. Patterson 6.537, 160.58
Steve Engel LBT

PHOTO EXTRA

Mike Moran