As NASCAR begins another title Chase, a look at the contenders and pretenders in the 16-man field
Summary
NASCAR’s playoff Chase has started with 16 drivers competing in 10 races to win the championship. Denny Hamlin, the regular-season champion, leads by 25 points over Ryan Blaney as they head into the first race at Darlington Raceway.Key Facts
- NASCAR’s playoff field includes 16 drivers competing over 10 races for the championship.
- The points standings were reset, with Denny Hamlin leading by 25 points over Ryan Blaney.
- The first playoff race will take place at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina.
- NASCAR changed the playoff format this year, removing knockout rounds and returning to a 10-race cumulative points system.
- Denny Hamlin won four races during the regular season and led the most laps overall.
- Ryan Blaney has won at least three races in each of the last four years and was the 2023 champion.
- Tyler Reddick has five wins this season, mostly early in the year, and recently improved with two top-10 finishes.
- Kyle Larson is the defending champion but has not won in 50 races, making him a less likely favorite this season.
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