Johnson pleased for Vickers

Johnson was running second when he was tagged by teammate Brian Vickers, who went on to win the race as Johnson collided with race leader Dale Earnhardt Jr.

After the race, Johnson and his crew were highly critical of the first-time winner, but the championship contender has settled down after having a few days to think about it.

"We were definitely disappointed, but I'm happy for the no. 25 team to get a victory," said Johnson. "I actually feel it was a racing incident. I hate that we missed an opportunity, but it wasn't intentional."

The Chase for the Championship heads to Lowe's Motor Speedway this weekend, one of Johnson's strongest tracks.

"We kind of think of Lowe's as our home," he said. "My expectations are high for this weekend, and we don't really need to worry about devising a strategy, just get pole, lead the most laps and win the race."