Get ready for a heart-pounding showdown at Talladega Superspeedway this Sunday, where the 2025 YellaWood 500 promises to be a game-changer in the NASCAR Round of 8 playoffs. But here's where it gets controversial: with Denny Hamlin already securing his spot in the Final Four, the pressure is on the remaining drivers to prove their mettle. And this is the part most people miss—the intense strategies and high stakes that could make or break a driver's championship dreams.
The Round of 8 is a brutal elimination process, with four drivers cut after each of the first three rounds, leaving only the top four to battle for the title in the season finale. Currently, Kyle Larson (+35), Christopher Bell (+20), and Chase Briscoe (+15) are leading the charge, but the odds are shifting fast. Ryan Blaney emerges as the favorite at +900, closely followed by William Byron, Joey Logano, and Austin Cindric, all at +1000. Chase Elliott (+1100) and Larson (+1200) are also strong contenders, making this race anyone's game.
Here’s the bold part: while many are eyeing Blaney for his three Talladega wins, some experts argue that Joey Logano (+1000) could be the dark horse. CBS Sports NASCAR writer Steven Taranto, a proven racing expert with 20 iRacing wins under his belt, is putting his money on Logano. Taranto’s track record is impressive—he called 17 winners in 2024, including longshots like William Byron at the Daytona 500 (16-1) and Chase Elliott at Texas (14-1). His picks have consistently delivered huge returns for followers.
For Talladega, Taranto also highlights a head-to-head prop bet: Ryan Blaney (-120) to finish ahead of Chase Elliott (-110). 'Blaney’s in a must-win situation after his Las Vegas setback, but Elliott’s two Talladega wins can’t be ignored,' Taranto explains. 'Still, I’m leaning towards Blaney given the circumstances.' But here’s the real kicker: Taranto has identified a massive 100-1 longshot that could pay out big time. Who is it? You’ll have to check out his picks to find out.
As the race kicks off at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, one thing’s for sure: this isn’t just about speed—it’s about strategy, nerves, and a bit of luck. Controversial question: Do you think Blaney’s desperation will push him to victory, or will Logano steal the show? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out Taranto’s full analysis before placing your bets!
