raceannouncer
Moderator
1.) This may be a race where many past road course winners who have a shot at Victory Lane. They include (in no particular order) Chase Elliott, SVG, Tyler Reddick, Ross Chastain, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, William Byron, A.J. Allmendinger, Chris Beuscher (last year's winner at The Glen), Daniel Suarez, and an up-and-coming rookie, Connor Zilisch. Connor surprised everyone last year by winning the Watkins Glen ARCA race; He then went on to win 2-for-2 on the same weekend, earning his first win the following day in the xfinity Series race. At the time of this post, he has already taken the checkered flag for the COTA xfinity race. More than likely, he could finish top-10! I know it's a long shot, but I'm picking him to get his first Cup win.
2.) 23XI teammates Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace will start from the front row for the Cup race. Turn one has always been (and will continue to be) the most interesting as the cars "fan out," reducing 5-wide racing, shrinking down to two lines...Thus, the drivers starting up front have a big advantage with a clear track with no other cars.
3.) The track layout has been changed. From my point of view, it has been "neutered" as its length has been shortened from 3.4 miles to 2.3, thereby increasing the total lap count to 95, up from 68. The race will come down to strategy, as both tire fall-off and brake fade will be concerning factors.
4.) As with all the other road courses on the scedule,, there will be several areas where passing using "dive-bombs" will be commonplace. But it will be "risk vs. reward": (Some will attack the track from the start and others may choose to place it safe.)
5.) The circuit has had repaving done but only in certain areas. Goodyear has decided on the tire compound used at The Glen last year, further adding to the "unknowns". Crew Chiefs will have to bring their "A-game" to have a shot at a win.
6.) History shows that the winner has led the most laps in 3 of the 4 races previously held.
Make the popcorn and settle back for possible fireworks and hopefully, boredom won't take over to cause sleeping through it! Again, I welcome anyone's input (hopefully, I can create a podcast soon!)
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