Schumacher’s winless streak has now reached 30 consecutive races dating back to his last victory at the 2010 fall Las Vegas event. He also remains winless at Atlanta Dragway, the only track on the NHRA tour where has failed to claim a title.

“We’re going to keep fighting,” Schumacher said. “This is not over by a long shot. We’re staying over here to test a new car tomorrow and, if all goes well, we will roll it out in Topeka (Kan.) in two weeks. I have full confidence that wins are right around the corner for the U.S. Army team.”

While Schumacher was stockpiling points on a hot, sunny day in Georgia, Brown was forced to the sidelines early after an opening-round final eliminations loss to Kalitta. It was the first time in 33 starts he lost in the first round.

“We were just too aggressive and puffed the tires,” Brown said. “For some reason, the clutch just didn’t wear like it should have. It was the same thing that happened last weekend in Houston when we lost in the final (to Lucas). We’ll get it all figured out and be ready for the next race.”

MAVTV Top Fuel driver Brandon Bernstein (left) enjoyed his best weekend with Morgan Lucas Racing, reaching the semifinals before falling just short to eventual race winner Steve Torrence.

Bernstein qualified No. 6 after making three fast, consistent passes in qualifying, then beat Hillary Will in the first round and Clay Millican in the second round. With his first semifinal appearance with MLR, Bernstein moved back into the top 10 of the Top Fuel points standings.

"The MAVTV car ran great all weekend," said Bernstein, who is ninth in points. "(Crew chief) Joe (Barlam) and the guys did a superb job. I couldn't have asked for a better team, better car this weekend. We were a team to beat, and it felt good to have that consistency and confidence in the race car.

"I kind of got my swagger back on the lights. I felt really good today. It's coming around. We're excited. This is a great team. We know our potential: We can win races. That's what we're going to try and go out there and do in Topeka."

In the first round David Grubnic (near lane) took the lead off the line, but dropped a cylinder and Bob Vandergriff ran 3.919 at 317.72 mph to get the win. Grubbie hung on for a 4.043 at 245.40.