Therefore , a driver can conceivably sit 10th in points after 26 races , but begin the Chase with the points lead if he has the most victories .
The top 10 receive an additional 3 - point bonus for each win earned during the regular season .
A driver can conceivably sit 10th in points after 26 races , but begin the Chase with the points lead if he has the most victories .
The top 10 receive an additional 3 - point bonus for each win earned during the regular season .