It is entirely realistic that Kyle Larson clinches the championship at Martinsville next weekend. If that happens, there will be nothing to race for at Homestead other than the race win. That would be the first non-exhibition race with no championship implications in 23 years.

Given that scenario, what do we expect to happen to TV ratings and overall sentiment? Given the viewership this Chase, I can’t realistically see it dropping much further. I would be really interested in seeing how the numbers compare to the finale from the past few years. I’m probably more likely to watch if I don’t have to watch “playoff racing” for another week honestly.

If the race is held without championship implications and does well or compares well to previous finales, what do we think would be the long term consequences? Would NASCAR be open to a full season points format? Would there be changes made for next year? I would love to see everyone’s thoughts.

Personally, I’m hoping this is what unfolds. I want to see a NASCAR race that isn’t entirely focused on the championship battle. Let’s watch racers race!

I’ve been thinking. I feel like a lot of NASCAR fans don’t understand the consequences of a lot of their wants. What’s something NASCAR fans complain about or beg for that if NASCAR actually did it, they would hate it and beg for it to be changed?

After seeing Herbst hit today that reminded me how hard Brad Smith in Arca 2015 hit the wall in a very similar way, but thankfully they’re both ok.

Hamlin has a 9.94 average finish since his last win in Race 16 (June).

Kyle Larson? 14.2, but 6.5 in the Chase with 3 wins.

Hamlin in Chase? 11.9 with no wins.

https://x.com/bobpockrass/status/2114679935876870412

I was just going through their set on YouTube and thought it was so cool! I remember Daron posting a tribute when he passed. Very fitting tribute as the festival took place at Texas motor speedway

https://youtu.be/ytJcikzY-6Y?t=3466&is=Cof6wG6RLPgLkPc-

Caught some footage of the overtime finish and the post race celebrations with my Nikon lens, thought y'all would be interested :D! Definitely was one of the more interesting Talladega races I've been to.

Also I know a few are curious about the "yellow line moment" coming to the finish line on the final lap. Was able to get some frames from my POV after tediously stepping through the footage and finding unblocked frames and you can see them in the comments if you're curious!

The safety crew were only focused on Joey while Riley wasn't heard from on the radio, the team had to get an official to get him some help. I was listening to the radio and after this video ends you would have heard the CC yelling for someone to get an official.

Post Race comments by Riley with his arm wrapped up

Can’t upload a video and can’t find any videos on X, so guess I’ll have give everyone my name!😂

The same 3 teams that won championships are each leading their own respective series. I am in favor of the chase and am still happy it’s back but it’s wild to see somehow the cream rises to the top