The NASCAR Cup Series is set to roar back to life this Sunday at the Kansas Speedway with the highly anticipated 2024 Hollywood Casino 400. Here’s a comprehensive look at the upcoming race, including odds, predictions, and key developments.
Race Details and Schedule
The 2024 Hollywood Casino 400 is scheduled to take place on Sunday, with the green flag dropping at 3 p.m. ET. The race will consist of 267 laps around the 1.5-mile Kansas Speedway.
Odds and Favorites
Following his dominant win at Bristol last week, Kyle Larson is the clear favorite, sporting odds of 7-2. He is closely followed by Denny Hamlin at 5-1, Tyler Reddick at 13-2, Christopher Bell at 9-1, and Chase Elliott at 10-1.
Notable Predictions and Picks
SportsLine's proven projection model, which has accurately predicted 18 winners since 2021, including three this season, is high on several drivers. Despite being a 22-1 longshot, Ty Gibbs is highlighted as a potential dark horse. Gibbs, who was eliminated from the playoffs after a 15th-place finish at Bristol, has had a strong season with seven top-five finishes and a previous win at Kansas in the Xfinity Series.
NASCAR.com’s "36 for 36" picks also offer some interesting insights. Dustin Albino from Jayski is backing Denny Hamlin, while Steve Luvender and Cameron from NASCAR.com are split between Bubba Wallace and other contenders.
Starting Lineup and Challenges
Chase Elliott, one of the top contenders, will face an uphill battle as he is set to start at the rear of the field due to an engine issue discovered during qualifying. This setback could significantly impact his chances, given the competitive nature of the field.
Qualifying and Lineup
William Byron secured a top 10 starting spot, which could give him an edge in the early stages of the race. The full starting lineup reflects a mix of playoff contenders and outsiders looking to make a statement.
TV Schedule and Coverage
For those looking to catch the action, the race will be broadcast on major sports networks. The NASCAR Xfinity Series, which precedes the Cup Series event, will also be covered, with details on the TV schedule available for viewers to plan their weekend.
Conclusion
The 2024 Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway promises to be an exciting event, filled with tight competition and potential upsets. With top drivers like Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin leading the pack, and dark horses like Ty Gibbs looking to make an impact, this race is one not to miss. Keep an eye on the starting lineup and any last-minute changes, as they could significantly influence the outcome of the race.
