NASCAR’s playoffs begin with no clear favorite, Larson as top seed, Reddick happy just to make field
August 25, 2025
There is no clear favorite as NASCAR’s playoffs get ready to begin Sunday at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina. Kyle Larson is the top seed, but Ryan Blaney has the momentum following his victory in the regular-season finale at Daytona. Blaney drives for Team Penske, which has three drivers in the 16-driver field and won the last three Cup Series titles. Shane van Gisbergen makes his playoff debut as a rookie with four wins so far this season. His win total matches Denny Hamlin for most in the Cup Series this season. Hamlin is the third seed.