Talladega Superspeedway, Daytona International Speedway and now Atlanta Motor Speedway showcase a racing product unlike any other. Big, blistering packs with racecars competing just inches apart over the course of hours make it exciting for television and grandstand audiences alike.
However, it takes special skill and precision to conquer these fierce configurations and avoid the notorious pile-ups. It is why some drivers have become masters on superspeedways while others have struggled mightily.
As the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity series head to Talladega this weekend, here are a few drivers that you need to keep an eye on because of their exceptional track record in recent superspeedway events.
Ryan Blaney
Although every driver has a shot to win due to the nature of pack racing, Ryan Blaney may just be the slight favorite this weekend. With two prior victories at Talladega, the third-generation star has established a consistency of making his way to the front of the large superspeedway packs.
Blaney comes into Talladega on a losing streak that dates back to 2021, but don’t be fooled by that statistic; look for Blaney to be back on top this weekend. He’s finished inside the top 10 more than any other driver in the field at superspeedways since 2020.
Erik Jones
When Denny Hamlin picks you as the favorite this weekend, you have to respect the superspeedway talents of Erik Jones.
Jones has three straight top 10s at Talladega. The Michigander also picked up his first career win on a superspeedway by winning the summer race at Daytona in 2018.
Jones needs a good outing after a slow start this season, but his lone top 10 this season, at Atlanta, did come at a superspeedway configuration.
Denny Hamlin
Hamlin has not won on a superspeedway in three years, but his resume speaks for itself. The Virginia native has tallied five superspeedway victories in his career and has led a lap in 12 of the last 13 events.
Hamlin has been outspoken about the lack of passing opportunities that the new Next Gen car creates on superspeedways. But as a critical observer, Hamlin’s astuteness could play into some Talladega success.
Bubba Wallace
Bubba Wallace has finished second in the Daytona 500 two out of the last three years. He also scored his triumphant first career Cup victory at Talladega a few years ago.
Always a threat to lead and be up front, Wallace has often claimed that superspeedway configurations are his…
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