The NASCAR Cup Series playoff picture is about to get a lot more interesting as the 350-lap event at Iowa Speedway gets underway today. The standings are tight, with Chase Elliott leading Kyle Larson by just four points and Denny Hamlin 20 points behind.
In the battle for the final playoff spot, Chris Buescher holds a narrow lead over teammate Ryan Preece, but both drivers start deep in the field. If Brad Keselowski wins today, he could knock Buescher out of a playoff spot, putting pressure on his team to deliver.
Chase Briscoe is also looking to make a move up the standings, starting from the pole for the sixth time this season. However, despite his impressive start, Briscoe has struggled to convert it into a win and only has seven playoff points so far.
Ryan Blaney enters the race with a strong team and a good balance of speed and consistency. The winner of last year’s event is expecting a big day from his friends and family in attendance, who are expected to total around 80 people.
The stage is set for an intense battle among the top drivers, with the playoffs looming large on the horizon. Will Chase Elliott maintain his lead, or will Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, or Brad Keselowski make a move? And can anyone challenge Ryan Blaney’s top-tier performance today?
Source: https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/what-to-watch-for-in-todays-nascar-cup-race-ta