Analyzing Hamlin, Byron, Larson, and Briscoe Ahead of the NASCAR Championship

All good things must come to an end, and the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season wraps up this weekend at Phoenix. Eric welcomes Ryan Stevens from WinTheRace.info to preview a championship battle that feels more wide open than any in recent memory. From Larson’s pit crew precision to Byron’s breakout potential, every driver in the Championship 4 brings a unique story to the finale.

• Can Kyle Larson rediscover that 2021 pit road magic and claim his second Cup title?
• Is William Byron ready to complete his superstar transformation after another season of dominance?
• Could Chase Briscoe pull off the ultimate underdog finish in his first year with JGR?
• Or will Denny Hamlin finally end the heartbreak and silence the “best never to win” talk once and for all?

Beyond the main contenders, Ryan also drops a dark horse pick that might surprise everyone — a driver capable of spoiling the championship party entirely. With new tire compounds, changing weather, and unpredictable race flow, this finale has every ingredient for chaos, drama, and a storybook ending for someone. Who takes the crown in Phoenix — Byron’s breakthrough, Larson’s redemption, Briscoe’s miracle, or Hamlin’s long-awaited moment? Drop your pick and get ready for one last Sunday showdown.

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