4Ever 400 Preview: Playoffs Continue On At Homestead

Just three races remain in NASCAR’s season to crown a champion. Kyle Larson locked himself into the championship race at Phoenix with his win at Las Vegas last week. This week, NASCAR’s best will hope to join Larson in punching their ticket to the final round by claiming victory in the 4Ever 400 at Homestead.

Who seems most likely to advance to the Final Four with the driver of the #5? The points situation looms large. Let’s dive in.

Playoff Picture Heading Into the 4Ever 400

There's no time to relax. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/X4ISxK5unE

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 18, 2023

1. Kyle Larson – Locked In
2. William Byron – 9 Points Above Cut Line
3. Martin Truex Jr. – 2 Points Above Cut Line
4. Denny Hamlin – 2 Points Above Cut Line
5. Christopher Bell – 2 Points Below Cut Line
6. Tyler Reddick – 16 Points Below Cut Line
7. Ryan Blaney – 17 Points Below Cut Line
8. Chris Buescher – 23 Points Below Cut Line

My predictions for this round haven’t changed all that much though I am a little bit worried about Tyler Reddick’s chances. The driver of the #45 faces an uphill climb after each of the playoff contenders had a solid day at Vegas with the exception of Chris Buescher.

I also am impressed with how Christopher Bell is running and wouldn’t be surprised to see the driver of the #20 sneak into the championship round.

However, I still maintain that the Championship Four after Martinsville will be Kyle Larson, William Byron, Denny Hamlin, and Tyler Reddick. Admittedly, if Reddick doesn’t run as well as I expect this weekend – his chances are done.

Entry List

There aren’t too many surprises on the entry list for Sunday’s race at Homestead-Miami, but John Hunter Nemechek crossing manufacturer lines from Toyota to Chevy to fill in for the #42 is a bit of a surprise on the surface. However, Legacy Motor Club will be switching to Toyota in 2024 and Nemechek will be in the car full-time so really, it makes a lot of sense.

The spring race featured a thrilling three-way battle for the win between Martin Truex Jr., Kyle Larson, and William Byron. Ultimately, it was Byron who came out victorious but I wouldn’t be surprised to see all three be a factor come Sunday.

.@TylerReddick knows how to win big races at @HomesteadMiami. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/WlYT0jaACY

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 19, 2023

I’ve hinted at it throughout the last two weeks but I really expect Tyler Reddick to run well this Sunday at Homestead-Miami Speedway as well. In fact, I predict Reddick claims victory in his #45 Toyota and advances to the Championship Four.

Check out the schedule below so you don’t miss any on-track action from this weekend.

Friday 10/20

NASCAR Xfinity Series Qualifying – 5:35 p.m. CT on USA

Saturday 10/21

NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying – 8:50 a.m. CT on NBC Streaming

Baptist Health Cancer Care 200 (NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series) – 11:00 a.m. CT on FS1

Contender Boats 200 (NASCAR Xfinity Series) – 2:00 p.m. CT on USA

Sunday 10/22

4Ever 400 presented by Mobil 1 (NASCAR Cup Series) – 1:30 p.m. CT on NBC

Stay locked into Apollo for more NASCAR and F1 Coverage throughout racing season! Follow @CoachJayArnold and @ApolloHOU on Twitter to stay up to date on the latest!