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via Getty

via Getty

In the high-octane world of NASCAR, the heat is on as the Cup Series charges towards its fastest track at Michigan International Raceway. With just four races remaining in the regular season, the battle for the final playoff spots intensifies, leaving drivers on the edge of their seats and fans holding their breath. Amidst the drama, Bubba Wallace and Ross Chastain stand at the center of attention.

In a riveting podcast episode of ‘Dirty Mo Dough,’ former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Steve Letarte and the ‘Professor’ engaged in a heated discussion, sparking a buzz throughout the NASCAR community.

Hendrick Motorsports’ former crew chief’s bold pick

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Steve Letarte wasted no time in picking his favorite. “Alright, let’s talk head to head. Those three tracks: Chastain and Bubba. It’s gotta be Bubba. Bubba’s gonna dominate that group,” the Hendrick Motorsports legend stated with conviction.

The Professor chimed in, supporting his sentiment without hesitation, leaving no room for doubt. They delved into the numbers, dissecting the tracks where Bubba and Chastain clashed. With eight races in focus, Bubba’s mastery shone through, boasting five wins to Chastain’s three.

“I’m telling you I’m taking Bubba. People say whatever they want. Bubba versus Chastain. Right now it’s Bubba. Not only is he faster he was unbelievable at Richmond and I’m going to tell you if people going to laugh all they want crappy pit stop Bubba normally gets challenged and staying in the game on the radio telling those guys it’s going to be like like he’s taking this switch. I’m heavy on Bubba. Love Bubba love what I’m here and I’m taking Bubba over Chastain. No doubt.” Letarte declared.

Bubba Wallace’s journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. A transformational season has seen the 23XI driver evolve in attitude and on-track performance. Wallace’s recent personal record at Richmond showcased his newfound form, and the Alabama resident now finds himself on the cusp of sealing his place in the 2023 Cup Series playoffs. With a comfortable 54-point lead over the cutline, he’s eager to avoid repeating last year’s fate at Michigan International Speedway.

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After the recent qualifying at Michigan, will Chastain break free from the chains of inconsistency and claim his shot at greatness, or will fate again cast its shadow over his racing dreams?

Ross Chastain’s near-miss at the pole can affect his Playoff Hunt

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Michigan witnessed Ross Chastain battling fate in the #1 car, striving to break free from the chains of inconsistency. For weeks, Chastain grappled with qualifying outside the top ten, but destiny did not seem to tilt in his favor on that fateful Saturday.

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Chastain flirted with the pole position in a nail-biting duel with Christopher Bell, but alas, he missed it by a mere 0.027 seconds. The disappointment lingered in the air, reminiscent of last year’s race, where he soared to lead 29 laps before plummeting to 22nd place after starting 24th. The question that loomed over the fans’ minds was whether Chastain could hold his ground near the front without stumbling into the same pitfalls.

Bell’s average lap speed of 193.382 mph throughout the qualifying rounds enticed the crowd, narrowly securing him the top starting spot for Sunday’s main event. Yet, the Trackhouse Racing driver, with his tenacious spirit and steely determination, came remarkably close, registering a lap speed of 193.242 mph.

READ MORE: Ross Chastain Could Become Denny Hamlin’s Biggest Threat as He Lurks in the Shadows

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As the countdown to the playoffs continues, NASCAR fans brace themselves for an adrenaline-fueled showdown. Bubba Wallace’s resurgence and Ross Chastain’s determination promise to make the remaining four races unforgettable.