<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1gp48n_0vXpOm8600" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1gp48n_0vXpOm8600" width="1006" height="593" >The Cup Series race at Watkins Glen was a tumultuous event for playoff drivers, as the chaotic atmosphere led to challenging outcomes. Of the 16 title contenders, only two placed in the top 10, with Chase Briscoe finishing sixth and Austin Cindric tenth. Several key playoff drivers, including Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin, and Brad Keselowski, faced significant setbacks due to crashes and penalties, complicating their playoff standings. The aftermath sets the stage for a critical playoff elimination race at Bristol.<ul><li>15 of 16 playoff drivers encountered issues at Watkins Glen.</li><li>Only two playoff drivers finished in the top 10: Chase Briscoe (6th) and Austin Cindric (10th).</li></ul>State of Play<ul><li>Joey Logano is locked into the Round of 12 following his win.</li><li>Denny Hamlin is now six points below the cutline due to a challenging day.</li><li>Chase Briscoe improved his standing to six points above the cutline.</li></ul>As the series approaches the Round of 16 finale at Bristol, playoff contenders face high stakes, with several at risk of elimination. The battle at Bristol promises intense competition as drivers like Hamlin and Keselowski look to rebound. The outcome could see unexpected shifts in playoff standings, impacting those who were once seen as front-runners.Bottom LineThe tumultuous race at Watkins Glen has heightened the tension for playoff drivers heading into Bristol. With several key contenders struggling and facing elimination, the upcoming race will be crucial for determining who advances in the series. The unpredictable nature of the playoff environment underscores the importance of conservative but strategic racing to secure a spot in the next round.</div></body>

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NewsBreak

Chaotic trip to Watkins Glen shakes up Cup playoffs

The Cup Series race at Watkins Glen was a tumultuous event for playoff drivers, as the chaotic atmosphere led to challenging outcomes. Of the 16 title contenders, only two placed in the top 10, with Chase Briscoe finishing sixth and Austin Cindric tenth. Several key playoff drivers, including Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin, and Brad Keselowski, faced significant setbacks due to crashes and penalties, complicating their playoff standings. The aftermath sets the stage for a critical playoff elimination race at Bristol.