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The NASCAR Xfinity Series offers a unique opportunity to see some of the future stars of the sport compete for race wins and Championships. The Xfinity Series Playoffs begin this weekend, and that means that these future Cup Series drivers and stars will have the opportunity to win a Championship over these next few weeks.
By the Numbers: #1 Seed (+43); 6 Wins; 13 Top-5s; 19 Top-10s
Breakdown: We know John Hunter Nemechek is going Cup racing next year with Legacy Motor Club, but first he must battle for an Xfinity Series Championship. He comes into the Playoffs as the number 1 seed, and he comes with major momentum after a win at Kansas. He very well may be the favorite to win the Xfinity Series Championship, and that would be a great lead-in to his Cup Series return.
By the Numbers: #7 Seed (+3); 0 Wins; 9 Top-5s; 15 Top-10s; 2 Poles
Breakdown: Josh Berry may not have had his best season so far, but he is always a threat in the Xfinity Series Playoffs. With tracks like Bristol, Martinsville, and Phoenix for the short track ace, Berry is a major candidate to win a race throughout the Playoffs. Why not bring some momentum into the number 4 Stewart-Haas Racing car in 2024.
By the Numbers: #6 Seed (+3); 1 Win; 5 Top-5s; 9 Top-10s; 3 Poles
Breakdown: Chandler Smith may still have an outside chance at that #31 Cup Series ride, but even if he does not get that, his performance this year means he is an intriguing prospect. He has been fast with three poles and his first career win at Richmond. This could be the budding start of a solid NASCAR career.
By the Numbers: #9 Seed (-2); 1 Win; 4 Top-5s; 10 Top-10s
Breakdown: Sammy Smith is still 19 years old and an Xfinity Series race winner in the Playoffs. He may not be a Championship favorite, and the Cup Series may be a few years away. However, he has impressed this season, and it should be interesting to see what he can do in the Playoffs and the years to come.
By the Numbers: #5 Seed (+9); 2 Wins; 9 Top-5s; 15 Top-10s
Breakdown: Sam Mayer has come into his own this season in his third year (second full-time) with JRM. He signed an extension to stay with the team for next season, and who knows what the future holds for him. If he continues to win races, he may get some Cup attention for 2025.
Who knows what the future holds for these drivers? It will be interesting to see how the Xfinity Series Playoffs play out and who can gain some big momentum to propel themselves into the Cup Series.
