Brad Keselowski, who earned his NASCAR Cup championship in 2012 when the Chase was the post-season format, expressed surprise at the limited impact of this year's reintroduction of it on driver behavior. Despite being two years removed from the previous format, Keselowski notes that a significant portion of drivers have not adjusted their approach to the current races.
This lack of adjustment may be attributed to the fact that many drivers are still adapting to the new format, which was introduced after Keselowski's championship win in 2012. The change saw the elimination rounds replaced with a win-and-you're-in format, and the season finale now determines the champion based on the best finish among the Championship Four.
However, an uproar among competitors and fans led to NASCAR reverting back to the previous format after one season, and the top 16 drivers in the point standings advance into the post-season title hunt. Keselowski believes that a 'good part of the field' has not yet grasped the new format, leaving them struggling to adapt.
Keselowski observed that some drivers are focusing on maintaining their current position rather than striving for a better finish, which is a significant departure from the old format where drivers could afford to throw away races. This lack of adjustment may indicate that drivers are still finding it difficult to adjust to the new format.
The co-owner of RFK Racing emphasized that drivers will need to adapt or be replaced if they fail to make the necessary adjustments. Keselowski attributed this to the nature of the sport, where sometimes you have to feel the pain first before making changes.
One notable example is Kyle Larson's Hendrick Motorsports team, which has remained unchanged in its approach despite the format change. However, teammate William Byron notes that fellow competitors are now more protective of their finish and focusing on finishing strong.
Byron also highlighted the importance of Stage points in the new format, stating that scoring fewer Stage points has hindered his team's performance. He recalled being sixth in the driver standings after six events last year but struggling to maintain a high position this season.
Larson expressed similar sentiments, saying that points have always been crucial in NASCAR and that the change did not seem different to him. However, he acknowledged that some drivers may be underestimating the importance of Stage points.
The lack of adjustment from drivers to the new playoff format may indicate a need for NASCAR to revisit its strategy. As the sport continues to evolve, it is essential for the governing body to ensure that changes are made with the best interests of the competitors in mind.
The lack of adjustment from drivers to the new playoff format may indicate a need for NASCAR to revisit its strategy.
