Only 12 drivers will advance into the next round with just one race remaining at Bristol Motor Speedway
We’re now two races into the first round of the NASCAR Playoffs. Only one race remains in the first round, the highbanks of Bristol Motor Speedway, where anything can happen.
Last week, Kevin Harvick drove to victory lane at Darlington Raceway. Last night, Brad Keselowski took the win at Richmond Raceway. Both of those drivers are now automatically locked into the Round of 12.
Additionally, Denny Hamlin is locked into the next round based on points.
13 other drivers are in a fight for the remaining 9 spots in the next round.
Who’s the surprise so far? Team Penske as a whole might be a slight surprise. Brad Keselowski basically called his win, days ago.
Austin Dillon is the absolute surprise. That team looks to be a strong championship contender with a runner up finish and Darlington and a 4th at Richmond.
Dillon was expected to be out in the first round. After Richmond, he’s two points away from being locked into the Round of 12.
NASCAR Cup Series
Playoff Point Standings
(Round of 16)
After: Richmond Raceway (Sept 12, 2020)
Pos | Driver | Wins | +/- Cutline
1. Kevin Harvick
1 Win
2. Brad Keselowski
1 Win
3. Denny Hamlin
(Locked in)
4. Joey Logano
+51
5. Martin Truex Jr
+38
6. Austin Dillon
+36
7. Chase Elliott
+28
8. Alex Bowman
+27
9. Kyle Busch
+18
10. Aric Almirola
+7
11. Kurt Busch
+7
12. Clint Bowyer
+3
— CUTLINE (ROUND OF 12) —
13. William Byron
-3
14. Cole Custer
-8
15. Matt DiBenedetto
-25
16. Ryan Blaney
-27
