Hamlin, 44, enters as the sentimental favorite, hoping to add the final item missing from his Hall-of-Fame resume.

Kyle Larson denied Denny Hamlin his first career championship when a late caution at Phoenix Raceway sent title-deciding finale into overtime.

"We're trying," smiled Hamlin after securing the top spot on the grid. "We're doing everything we can. I'm really proud of this whole Toyota team. We worked hard at it. We've really been working hard...