Wreck Means Biffle Will Roll Off From Back Of Field At Cup Race

July 4, 2009 6:04 p.m. EST

Daytona Beach, FL (AHN) - Normally Greg Biffle's ninth-place standing in the points would give him a ninth starting spot when qualifying is rained out.

But tonight in the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway, Biffle will have to roll off second-to-last.

Biffle wrecked his No. 16 Roush Fenway Ford in Thursday night's practice and because the race is an impound race he was unable to practice his backup car.

When Friday's qualifying was rained out, the 43-car field was set by the NASCAR rule book but because Biffle was not able to practice his backup car he will start at the back of the field.

"With the rainout, we've got to start in the back because we didn't make a lap with this car. If we would've made one lap with this car, we could start in our starting spot of ninth,'' said Roush. "The only reason we can't start in our spot is because we didn't make any laps in it and they don't want us to start up there if the transmission sticks in gear, or the brakes don't work, or we're leaking oil, or the steering locks up."

Biffle wrecked with less than 15 minutes left in practice and will take to the 400-mile race knowing little about how his backup ride will react.

Sam Hornish Jr. was also involved in the Thursday night accident with Biffle and had to give up his 25th starting position for the same reason. Hornish's No. 77 Dodge will start 43rd, one row behind Biffle.