As we near the end of the 2023 schedule, NASCAR playoffs are reaching the intermediate track in Kansas for a second time. Hendrick Motorsports ace Kyle Larson has secured his berth in the round of 12 after winning in Darlington, and the battle is as fierce as ever with the rest 15 playoff contenders looking to advance to the next round.

While the community has seen a resurgence of the Fords with RFK Racing and Front Row Motorsports spearheading the campaign, as we reach the 2nd playoff race in Kansas odds favor the more competitive and resourceful teams—Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing.

Moreover, the NASCAR nation can surely expect an intense fight to the end between the Chevrolets and Toyotas. This brings to the forefront the younger Toyota camp – Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin’s 23XI Racing – and its two playoff contenders.

The pressure is on Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin’s drivers amidst the favoring odds

Ever since its inception in 2020, NBA great Michael Jordan and JGR veteran Denny Hamlin‘s team has been defying expectations with consistent performances despite being a fairly young team. This season, the combo of road course specialist Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace has captivated the fandom with both making it to the playoffs.

Despite the milestone, the pressure is still on Jordan’s drivers as the playoff action reaches the gates of the Kansas Speedway—an intermediate track favoring the Japanese manufacturer. However, the fierce competition from the superior and consistent HMS and JGR cars is certain to raise some concerns.

And the first to the list is Southern 500 triumphant, Kyle Larson and his #5 HMS team. Often dubbed as the once-in-a-generation talent, Larson has advanced into the next round with a spectacular late rally at Darlington. But a secured spot isn’t looking to hold down #5 Chevy as he enters Hollywood Casino 400 with +500 odds favoring the Chevy.

Closely behind is his friend, Denny Hamlin who has the most number of wins at the venue with 4 career wins. He also racked up his first season win at the 1.5-mile track earlier this year, edging out Kyle Larson in the closing laps to a decisive win. The 42-year-old veteran comes in at +500.

Next is Hamlin’s JGR teammate and fellow veteran Martin Truex Jr. According to Draftkings.com the #19 Toyota has a favorable odds of +550 to win at Kansas, with 2 wins at the venue. While these 3 are the major betting favorites going into the race, Tyler Reddick and his teammate Bubba Wallace also have a solid chance with William Byron and Christopher Bell making things for the duo.

WATCH THIS STORY: Denny Hamlin lashes out at Michael Jordan’s driver for ruining his Darlington performance 

And this puts Jordan’s drivers under scrutiny, considering how close was Wallace to a win(finishing 2nd at Kansas earlier this year). Moreover with more than capable equipment at hand and the strong backing from their boss, both Wallace and his 27-year-old teammate certainly have a strong chance to make it to the next round with a stellar win at Kansas.

MJ’s team gets a stiff one from NASCAR despite the favorable odds

Entering his first-ever Cup Series playoffs is Michael Jordan’s driver – Bubba Wallace. Though the 29-year-old is yet to claim a win this season, the points game and a smart strategy have got him into the playoff 16. But, that alone won’t be enough for the Alabama native to advance into the next round.

Despite battling adversity and self-doubt, Wallace proved the naysayers wrong when he finished 2nd at Kansas earlier this Spring. However as the playoff bandwagon is just hours away from commencing at Kansas, the organization has nailed a hammer on the #23 team.

Failing the pre-race inspection an alarming 2 times, NASCAR officials have penalized Jordan’s #23 team. And adding more pressure is Wallace’s crew chief, Zachary Marquardt, who will be ejected for the remainder of the race weekend. The team will also forfeit the pit stall for this week.

READ MORE: Massive Playoff Blow to Michael Jordan’s $150 Million NASCAR Team at Kansas As Bubba Wallace Pays Detrimental Price for Deceit

Will Hamlin and Jordan’s drivers be able to overcome the adversity and reign over the HMS and consistent JGR cars? Now that is the million-dollar question.