The Cup Series playoffs is approaching its first cull.
Sixteen of NASCAR’s finest talents entered the postseason — a 10-race odyssey that sees drivers duel with superspeedways, short tracks and road courses alike — hoping for a chance at a title.
With one race to go in the opening round, much of the field is still hoping to advance to the next step on the championship ladder: the Round of 12.
The site of the final race of the Round of 16, Bristol, has played host to a great number of Cup Series epics.
One of those eye-catching contests took place earlier this year when Denny Hamlin outlasted Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Martin Truex Jr. in the race’s final paces to take home the checkered flag.
Hamlin and Truex — sitting six and 14 points, respectively, below the cut line entering into the race — could certainly use another strong day at the office to give themselves a shot at making the next round.
They won’t be alone, however. Of the 16 men taking part in postseason racing, 15 are still seeking a spot in the Round of 12. Get ready for fireworks.
Below is a current look at the top 16 drivers in the Cup Series playoff standings heading into Saturday’s race at Bristol.
This section will be updated at the conclusion of the Bass Pro Shops Night Race.
