5 Points to Ponder: The 1 Thing (Maybe 2) That Might Finally Sink the NASCAR Playoffs
But as long as we’re stuck with the playoffs for now, here are a couple things to watch for over the next few weeks.
Cup Series
Stat Sheet: Chase Briscoe’s Domination Continues Year of 1-Sided Cup Races
From 1985 to 2024, seven drivers had managed to lead more than 200 laps in a Southern 500, but only one of them went on to win: Kevin Harvick in 2014.
Couch Potato Tuesday: The Playoff Focus Distracts from a Boring Darlington Night
This wasn’t all that exciting of a race to watch, but that wasn’t necessarily NBC Sports’ fault.
Holding a Pretty Wheel: NASCAR Cup Contenders Need to Lay Off the Panic Button
Is it time for anyone who doesn’t drive for JGR or 23XI to hit the panic button? Absolutely not. It is time for some teams to be realistic, though.
Up to Speed: Do Not Overlook Austin Cindric in the Playoffs
In very similar situations in 2022 and 2024, Cindric punched above his weight in the postseason and is poised to do so again.
Thinkin’ Out Loud at Darlington: Close Racing Still Isn’t Good Racing If You Can’t Pass
Hey, the Southern 500 featured some close racing! Surely there were some great passes and no issues with dirty air, right? … Right?
The Underdog House: The Rich Get Richer at Darlington
Legacy Motor Club duo of Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek led the underdog charge in the Southern 500.
The Big 6: Questions Answered After Chase Briscoe’s 2nd Straight Taming of The Lady in Black
If you still have questions, then we have answers of NASCAR Cup Series playoff opener at Darlington Raceway.
Monday Morning Pit Box: Pit Road Problems Bite Playoff Drivers at Darlington
On a night that called for precise pit road execution, several playoff pit crews fell short of that expectation.
Stock Car Scoop: Career Drive Separates Chase Briscoe in Playoff Opener
The myriad of issues for playoff drivers are also discussed on this week’s episode of Stock Car Scoop.