As the 2024 NASCAR playoffs heat up, several non-playoff drivers are poised to shake things up, potentially stealing wins and disrupting the championship contenders. These drivers, often referred to as “spoilers,” have nothing to lose and can race more aggressively without worrying about playoff points, making them wildcards in the coming races.
Chris Buescher
Chris Buescher has emerged as one of the top spoilers in recent seasons. Although he narrowly missed the playoffs this year, Buescher’s prowess on short tracks and road courses makes him a dangerous competitor. His standout victory at Watkins Glen last year and his consistent form on similar tracks mean that playoff contenders will have to watch out for him, especially at tracks like Bristol, where he excels【8†source】【9†source】.
Ross Chastain
Ross Chastain is another driver who could cause some playoff drama. Known for his aggressive style and willingness to take risks, Chastain could be a spoiler at any race. His ability to control portions of races, such as leading 51 laps at Watkins Glen before finishing fourth, shows his potential to upset the playoff standings. Despite not being in playoff contention, Chastain’s competitive drive and success at tracks like Martinsville make him a threat【8†source】【9†source】.
### Kyle Busch
Though missing the playoffs for the first time in years, Kyle Busch remains a threat in the remainder of the 2024 season. With a storied career and multiple wins at tracks like Bristol, Busch has the experience and talent to snatch a victory from playoff drivers. His aggressive style and high-pressure performance history ensure that he will be a contender in races, adding an unpredictable element to the postseason【9†source】.
### Michael McDowell
Michael McDowell is another wildcard. Known for his skill on road courses and superspeedways, McDowell is always a contender on tracks like Daytona and the Charlotte Roval. His ability to capitalize on other drivers’ mistakes makes him a prime candidate to disrupt the playoff races. McDowell, a former Daytona 500 champion, could leverage these strengths to score an upset win before the end of the season【9†source】【10†source】.
### Corey LaJoie
Corey LaJoie has shown promise on superspeedways, coming close to victories at Atlanta in previous years. LaJoie led laps and fought hard for wins, making him a dark horse contender. With his future in NASCAR uncertain, LaJoie could be especially motivated to claim his first career Cup Series victory, potentially throwing a wrench into the playoff picture【10†source】.
Final Thoughts
As the NASCAR playoffs progress, these drivers and others outside of the title hunt will be pushing hard for wins. With their aggressive styles and high-risk strategies, they have the potential to upset the playoff standings and change the course of the 2024 championship. From short tracks to superspeedways, these non-playoff competitors could very well make the postseason even more unpredictable and exciting.
These spoilers are sure to add excitement and suspense to the remaining races, ensuring that no playoff contender can take anything for granted as they chase the championship.
