As the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Bristol Motor Speedway for the final race of the Round of 16, insiders Jeff Gluck and Jordan Bianchi warn that no driver is secure in their spot. On The Teardown, Gluck emphasized that even top drivers like Christopher Bell, Austin Cindric, and Alex Bowman are vulnerable due to the tight standings and unpredictable nature of the track.
Gluck highlighted the recent example of a driver going from -21 to +6, demonstrating the potential for drastic changes in fortune. He refused to count out any of the 16 drivers, including Harrison Burton, who is 20 points behind the cut line. Bianchi, however, disagreed, believing Burton’s deficit and the strength of other playoff drivers make it unlikely for him to advance.
Bianchi argued that Burton needs not only a great run but also help from others having bad runs, making his chances slim. Despite this, Burton will be determined to prove Bianchi wrong and make a surprising push to advance. The tension and uncertainty surrounding the playoff standings promise an electrifying event at Bristol.
The NASCAR Cup Series’ return to Bristol is expected to be chaotic, with all drivers knowing they have a shot at advancing to the Round of 12. The tight field and high stakes will push drivers to their limits, making for an unforgettable race. As Gluck and Bianchi emphasized, no one is safe, and anything can happen at Bristol.
In the end, it’s not just about the drivers’ skills but also about luck, strategy, and adaptability. The Bristol showdown will be a true test of endurance, and fans can expect an action-packed night of racing as the drivers battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.