The stage is set for the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs after a wild one at Daytona saw William Byron in the No. 24 Liberty University Chevrolet score his first career win, solidifying his spot.
The sour note of the season finale was seven-time Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson getting collected in the race’s final caution with two laps to go, just missing the cut line and will not be in the playoffs.
Let’s run you through the field.
Regular Season Champ – Kevin Harvick (2,057)
After winning seven races this season, Harvick was presented with the regular-season trophy ahead of Saturdays Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway. It marks the first time that Harvick has won the regular-season title, and he should be considered the favorite to finish the job.
Regular Season Runner-Up – Denny Hamlin (2,047)
Hamlin is no slouch and hungry to capture his first-ever Cup Series Championship. After winning six races this season and tallying 15 top-five finishes, look for Hamlin to be there at the end when the Championship four take to Phoenix.
Third Time Is The Charm – Brad Keselowski ( 2,029)
After his three race wins, Keselowski is considered a top contender to take home the title. After announcing a one-year contract extension with Team Penske earlier this summer, you can be assured he is all in to win a championship this year.
Fourth Place Fighter – Joey Logano (2,022)
With two wins this season and six top fives, it has been a season of ups and downs for Logano. Though, he has found himself caught up in some incidents that took him out of contention for wins.
The Rest Of The Field
5. Chase Elliott (2,020)
6. Martin Truex Jr. (2,014)
7. Ryan Blaney (2,013)
8. Alex Bowman (2,009)
9. William Byron (2,007)
10. Austin Dillon (2,005 )
11. Cole Custer (2,005)
12. Aric Almirola (2,005)
13. Clint Bowyer (2,004)
14. Kyle Busch (2,003)
15. Kurt Busch (2,001)
16. Matt DiBenedetto (2,000)
The Races
Round of 16
Darlington, Richmond, Bristol
Round of 12
Vegas, Talladega, Charlotte
Round of 8
Kansas, Texas, Martinsville
Championship Weekend
Phoenix
