Michael McDowell unsure why NASCAR penalized him for start violation at Bowman Gray

Suffice to say, Michael McDowell didn't agree with NASCAR's ruling that he jumped the start of Wednesday's last-chance qualifier at Bowman Gray Stadium. 

McDowell cleared polesitter Josh Berry and led the first six laps before NASCAR deemed that he launched before Berry. McDowell was sent to the back of the field, ending his chance of finishing top-two and advancing to Wednesday evening's Cook Out Clash (6 p.m. ET, Fox).

Michael McDowell explains

"The 21 spun his tires," McDowell told Fox Sports' Bob Pockrass. "He launched in first gear, I launched in second. He went first, but he spun his tires, so I was ahead. That part was fairly clear. They're not gonna undo it. It's over now."

McDowell was forced to restart last (18th) on lap 7, but could only claw his way back to 11th by race's end.