Get ready for an exciting NASCAR showdown at the 2025 YellaWood 500! The Round of 8 playoffs are heating up, and we're about to witness some intense racing action at Talladega Superspeedway. But here's where it gets controversial: who will emerge victorious and secure their spot in the Final Four?
Denny Hamlin has already clinched a spot, but the battle for the remaining positions is fierce. Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, and Chase Briscoe are hot on his trail, with just a few points separating them. This is the part most people miss: the postseason is a grueling four-round journey over the final 10 races, and only the top four drivers will make it to the championship race.
The odds for the YellaWood 500 are in, and Ryan Blaney is the favorite at +900. William Byron, Joey Logano, and Austin Cindric are close behind at +1000. But don't count out Chase Elliott at +1100 or Larson at +1200. These drivers are ready to give it their all on Sunday, with the race scheduled to start at 2 p.m. ET.
Before you place your bets, you need to hear from the expert: CBS Sports NASCAR writer Steven Taranto. With his impressive sim racing credentials and 20 iRacing wins, Taranto is a force to be reckoned with. He had an incredible 2024 season, nailing 17 winners, including longshots like William Byron at the Daytona 500 and Chase Elliott at Texas.
For the Talladega Superspeedway race, Taranto is backing Joey Logano at +1000. He also has an intriguing head-to-head prop bet, with Ryan Blaney (-120) favored over Chase Elliott (-110). Taranto explains, "When it comes to the Team Penske drivers, Ryan Blaney's three career Talladega wins and Austin Cindric's first spring victory here speak volumes. Blaney is under the spotlight this weekend, and a win at Talladega or Martinsville could be his ticket to the Championship 4."
But here's the twist: Chase Elliott is a force to be reckoned with at Talladega, too, with two career wins. Taranto adds, "Given Blaney's circumstances and the narrative, I lean towards Blaney in this head-to-head, but Elliott is not one to be underestimated."
Taranto has more insights and best bets for the 2025 Talladega Superspeedway 500, including a huge longshot around 100-1. Will this driver surprise everyone and bring home a massive payday? You won't want to miss his picks!
So, who do you think will dominate the YellaWood 500? Will Taranto's predictions come true? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! NASCAR fans, let's discuss!
