Engine Problem Ends Gilliland's Race & Playoff Hopes at Talladega

Todd Gilliland, No. 38 Speedco Ford F-150

Start: 10th (based on qualifying formula)
Finish: 28th

• Stage One: 2nd
• Stage Two: 7th
• Stage Three: 28th

• Todd Gilliland started 10th at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway on Saturday in the No. 38 Speedco Ford F-150. Being an elimination race for the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series (NGROTS), Talladega was a big race for Gilliland. The first multi-truck accident of the race occurred behind him on lap 11. He was fifth when the race resumed with only two laps remaining until the end of the Stage One. When the stage ended on lap 20, Gilliland was second and gained valuable stage points. He pitted a few times under caution for tires, fuel and shock adjustments.

• When the second stage began, Gilliland restarted 27th due to pitting more than once, but he did not stay back there for long. He was back up to eighth after only two laps. With another caution late in the stage on lap 37, Stage Two ended under caution with Gilliland in seventh place picking up more stage points. He pitted for four tires and fuel. At this point he was only nine points below the cut line, after making up 10 points throughout the race.

• As the final stage began, Gilliland was ninth. Only a few laps later smoke came from under the Speedco Ford F-150 signaling a problem with the engine. Gilliland's race was done, as well as his playoff hopes since the two drivers lowest in playoff points were eliminated following this race. Gilliland was credited with 28th place at Talladega.

​Gilliland on Talladega: "Our Speedco Ford was good and we were able to gain stage points in both stages, which we needed. Man I wish we could have finished this race. I'm so thankful for Speedco, Frontline Enterprises, Black's Tire and all our sponsors who supported us this season. It sucks to be out of the playoffs, but we didn't to well this round. We had two bad races to start and a bad race here today. We did our best, but it did not turn out the way he hoped. We still have four more races to try to win this season."