Zilisch vs. SVG Head-To-Head? | Analyzing COTA Contenders

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Eric Estepp

The #1 NASCAR content creator on YouTube, Eric Estepp hosts Out of the Groove, a daily talk show covering news and trending topics in the NASCAR fan community.

Eric Estepp is joined by Ryan Stevens from WinTheRace.info as left turns give way to left and right this weekend as the Cup Series heads to Circuit of the Americas. With road course racing back on the schedule, the big question is simple: Can anyone stop Shane van Gisbergen?

Is SVG really a 30% favorite, or is that somehow still too low?
Does Tyler Reddick slot in as the clear next-best at COTA?
Why can’t Christopher Bell be overlooked on any track type right now?
And how quickly can Connor Zilisch turn elite road course talent into a Cup breakthrough?

There are proven winners here, rising stars with massive upside, and veterans looking to reclaim momentum. Add in extra horsepower this year and meaningful practice and qualifying, and the variables only stack higher. From data-driven projections to bold predictions, this COTA preview covers the favorites, the sneaky contenders, and the drivers who could shake up the early-season narrative.

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