First Data 500 Predictions
The NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series begins its third stage of the Chase this afternoon when it waves the green flag for the First Data 500. Here’s three drivers we like to contend for the victory.
According to the latest oddsmakers, Kyle Busch is favored at home, as he is getting 5/2 odds to win. Other short odds to prevail are Brad Keselowski (5/1), Clint Bowyer (11/2) and Martin Truex Jr. (6/1). The First Data 500 takes place today at 2:30PM ET from Martinsville Speedway in Ridgeway, Virginia. The race will air live on the NBC Sports Network.
52013 Kyle Busch 5/2
Busch is the favorite today and has the points lead coming into this race at Martinsville. Over his career, Busch has picked up two victories at this track. His average finish over 26 races there is 12.7, while his driver rating is 103.5. Busch is comfortably in first place in the point standings, but still could use a win to secure his spot in the final race.
52007 Denny Hamlin 14/1
While Hamlin doesn’t have a chance to win the season title anymore, he can still pick up a win today at a track he is very strong at. Hamlin has five wins at Martinsville in his career and an average finish of 10.1 over 25 races. He has a driver rating of 106.3 at the track, which is second best in the field. Hamlin hasn’t had a 2018 season to remember, so he will be eager to pick up a victory to give himself something positive to end the year on.
52025 Kurt Busch 25/1
Busch finds himself in seventh place in the point standings, with his chance at a championship still alive. He is listed with some long odds today due to three DNF’s at Martinsville in his career. Despite that, he also is a two-time winner at this track. Give all that is at stake for Busch, I think he provides a lot of value. He knows he likely needs a win over these next three races to make that winner-take-all race for the title. Look for him to be aggressive today and do all he can to get that needed win.
