The new title sponsor of the race was LifeLock, a company that sells products that are designed to protect consumers from identity theft.

"Rocketman" Ryan Newman was to have been alongside him, missing the pole position by .30 thousandths of a second, but his lap was disallowed after failing post-qualifying inspection.

During final practice, polesitter Jimmie Johnson spun and damaged his left front fender.

Following the incident, Kyle would bring his car into the garage, retire from the race, and leave the track.

Jeff Burton, who was leading the points at this race last year, attempted to repair fender damage under red flag conditions, sending him to the tail end of the longest line.

Another Chase contender, Tony Stewart, had made a gamble before the previous red flag to coast to the end.

Crew chief Greg Zipadelli made the call to stay out on the racetrack, not wanting to risk track position.

The call would not work as Tony's tire went flat and was accidentally punted by Kurt Busch, causing him to spin and collect chase contender Carl Edwards.

Biffle was considerably slower than pace car speed, and the finish was protested over the procedure.