Brandon Jones delivered a crucial performance in the Xfinity Series qualifying results at Kansas, securing pole position at a pivotal point in the playoffs and putting himself in a stronger position, just eight points above the cutline. The fierce competition at Kansas Speedway saw several top drivers set the stage for an intense playoff race as the lineup shapes the pursuit for championship glory.
Brandon Jones Delivers Under Pressure to Secure the Pole
Brandon Jones continues his impressive track record at Kansas, marking his third pole in the last four Xfinity Series qualifying sessions at this venue. Jones, representing Joe Gibbs Racing, appears right at home up front, especially with the stakes higher than ever given his slim points margin above the playoff threshold. His command in qualifying underscores his consistency and determination as the championship window narrows.
Alongside Jones in the front row is his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Taylor Gray, who landed the second starting position. Sam Mayer secured third, while Butterbean Queen, driving for Kauling, locked in fourth. Justin Allgaier completed the top five, providing a powerful front pack as the race approaches.
Notable Performances and Team Strategies in Qualifying
Several drivers made their presence felt in the Xfinity Series qualifying results. Connor Zilisch, who starts seventh, matches his lowest start since Indianapolis in the summer—a race in which he ultimately clinched victory. Other notable positions include Rajah Caruth at eighth, Sheldon Creed rounding out the top ten, Jesse Love in twelfth, Nick Sanchez thirteenth, and Sammy Smith fourteenth. Austin Hill, Harrison Burton, and Carson Kvapil will start in seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth, respectively, ensuring further depth in the competitive field.
It’s a @JoeGibbsRacing front row with @BrandonJonesRac winning the pole for the NASCAR #XfinitySeries Playoff race later today at Kansas! pic.twitter.com/pu9GBfVb7v” — The CW Sports, September 27, 2025
Having three Joe Gibbs Racing cars within the top six further cements the organization’s dominance at this circuit, with recent history favoring their drivers. Just last year, Aric Almirola captured the checkered flag for JGR at this event. As the team sets its sights on another victory, the competitive atmosphere among drivers such as Queen and Caruth promises a thrilling contest.
“Brandon Jones on the NASCAR Xfinity Series pole once again in Kansas. JGR is hoping to make this race theirs. Connor Zilisch starts P7, his worst start since Indy. He won that race. pic.twitter.com/weffISAbwM” — Jonathan Howard, September 27, 2025
Momentum and Playoff Implications Heading Into the Race
The current Xfinity Series playoffs have reached a critical stage, with the Kansas outcome poised to redefine the playoff standings before the elimination race at the Charlotte Roval. For contenders like Jones, every point gained here could spell the difference between advancement and disappointment. Avoiding last-minute desperation at the Roval remains a prime motivator for all the teams and drivers on the bubble.
Jones’s recent performances include victories and strong finishes, such as a win at Darlington, top-tens at Watkins Glen and Daytona, and solid results at Gateway and Bristol. This consistent form mirrors his output from his previous stint with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2022, showing resilience and renewed confidence. Already reestablished among the top contenders, Jones will look to translate qualifying speed into a vital win that may well shape his playoff destiny.
What Lies Ahead for Key Drivers
Justin Allgaier and Connor Zilisch have showcased elite pace this season, consistently ranking near the top. As the field prepares for the next stage—especially with Phoenix looming for the Championship 4—the road ahead is lined with opportunities and risks. Kauling’s entry, Queen, along with Caruth, have signaled their intent to challenge the playoff regulars, promising respectful yet determined racing in pursuit of breakout performances and potential upset results.
The qualifying dynamics and the current points outlook have generated heightened anticipation as drivers like Brandon Jones, Justin Allgaier, and Connor Zilisch vie for the season’s defining victories. Teams such as Joe Gibbs Racing and Kauling, along with their standout drivers, have both the momentum and strategic depth to impact the playoff picture. With the elimination race at the Roval on the horizon, every advancement at Kansas could resonate throughout the rest of the postseason.
It's a @JoeGibbsRacing front row with @BrandonJonesRac winning the pole for the NASCAR #XfinitySeries Playoff race later today at Kansas! pic.twitter.com/pu9GBfVb7v
— The CW Sports (@TheCW_Sports) September 27, 2025
Brandon Jones on the NASCAR Xfinity Series pole once again in Kansas. JGR is hoping to make this race theirs. Connor Zilisch starts P7, his worst start since Indy. He won that race. pic.twitter.com/weffISAbwM
— Jonathan Howard (@Jondean25) September 27, 2025
