The Glen Will Be Critical For NASCAR Ford Playoff Drivers

As the second race in the 2024 Cup Series Playoffs, Watkins Glen will be a crucial event for the NASCAR Ford drivers in this year’s title fight. While Joey Logano’s No. 22 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is locked in thanks to his win at Atlanta last weekend, others like Chase Briscoe are in dire straits, meaning the Glen could make or break their title hopes.

A report from NASCAR.com emphasizes the importance of the forthcoming race at Watkins Glen, especially given that the Cup Series will utilize a different tire compound than the series has used at the track previously. Drivers expect to experience more tire fall-off and grip loss as the race goes on, creating a greater opportunity for passing but forcing teams to consider alternative pit strategies.

Brad Keselowski’s No. 6 NASCAR Ford could benefit from a win at the Glen, but he doesn’t have the best track record on the tricky road course. He’s projected to bring home a disappointing 20^th-place result, which could make his advance into the Round of 12 a longshot. But if he does manage to pull off a win, he could be a serious title contender.

Along with Keselowski, the remaining NASCAR Ford Playoffs drivers aren’t expected to win at Watkins Glen. Ryan Blaney’s No. 12 Mustang is projected to finish 12^th; Austin Cindric’s No. 2 Mustang 17^th; Logano’s No. 22 Mustang 19^th; Chase Briscoe’s No. 14 Mustang 25^th; and Harrison Burton’s No. 21 Mustang 35^th.

Meanwhile, despite the fact that he’s not in the Playoffs, Chris Buescher is projected to be the highest-finishing NASCAR Ford driver at the Glen. In the projected finishing order, he’s expected to finish fifth, and while bringing his No. 17 Mustang to Victory Lane won’t help him in the title fight, it would still be a boost for him and his team. Moreover, if he wins, it could keep a Playoffs contender from winning and shake up the postseason championship picture even more.