The Cutline with Johnny on the Track: Can Tyler Reddick Make History?

Ryan Blaney finally broke through in dramatic fashion at Phoenix, surviving one of the wildest races the track has seen in years. On the latest Cutline episode, Armany DePaul and Johnny from Johnny on the Track broke down a race that had everything. Despite multiple setbacks, including penalties and pit road chaos, Blaney fought back again and again before tracking down Christopher Bell in the closing laps.

• How did Ryan Blaney overcome flat tires, penalties, and constant cautions to still chase down the win?
• Did Christopher Bell actually have the best long-run speed early, or was Blaney always the driver to beat?
• Were tire failures the real story of the race, or did driver mistakes create the chaos at Phoenix?
• Is Shane van Gisbergen already proving doubters wrong with another strong early-season performance?

Beyond the wild race itself, the conversation also shifted toward the bigger picture of the 2026 season. Tyler Reddick still holds a strong early points lead, but drivers like Blaney, Bell, and Larson are already showing the speed needed to challenge him. Meanwhile, surprise names like SVG and Michael McDowell sit higher in the standings than many expected. With upcoming races at Las Vegas, Darlington, and Martinsville, the next stretch could reveal who truly belongs among the championship favorites.