Get ready for some intense NASCAR action as we dive into the predictions for the final four drivers in the Cup Series championship! The race to the top is on, and these insiders have some bold calls!
Two NASCAR experts, Jeff Gluck and Jordan Bianchi, recently shared their insights on The Teardown podcast. After an intense elimination race at Charlotte, the field has been narrowed down to just eight drivers, and these insiders are ready to make their picks.
But here's where it gets controversial... Gluck went with Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, and Chase Briscoe as his final four. Bianchi, on the other hand, chose Blaney, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, and Logano. An interesting mix, don't you think?
And these predictions don't stop there! Both Gluck and Bianchi also revealed their picks for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion. Gluck believes Logano will reign supreme for the fourth time, while Bianchi predicts a second win for Blaney in three years. It's an intriguing battle between these two drivers, as they've dominated the last three championships.
Now, here's the part most people miss... Gluck and Bianchi discussed the one playoff driver who's giving them pause: William Byron. Despite winning the NASCAR Cup Series Regular Season Championship this year, Byron has only managed to finish in the top 10 in two of the six playoff races. Gluck pointed out an eye-opening stat: "Byron has led zero laps in the playoffs so far."
Bianchi added, "We overhyped them based on the regular-season win. They've been consistent, but when you look at laps led and stage wins, it's not there. There's no indication this team is championship material."
So, is Byron's performance a cause for concern? Gluck noted that while Byron may not be looking strong, the point separation between all eight drivers is minimal. Hamlin leads the points, but he's only eight points above the cut line. "It's a tight race," Gluck explained. "Advantages are wiped out, and it's a straight battle for these final four races."
The NASCAR Playoffs Round of 8 kicks off this Sunday at the South Point 400 in Las Vegas. The championship race will take place at Phoenix Raceway on November 2nd, airing on NBC at 3 p.m. ET. Who will emerge as the champion? Will it be one of the predicted final four, or will there be a surprise contender?
What do you think? Do these predictions align with your expectations? Feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments! We'd love to hear your take on this exciting NASCAR season.