Kyle Larson Confesses He Is a “Very Aggressive” Racer 2 Kyle Larson (via Imago)

Kenny Wallace Snubs Kyle Larson to Name The 'Top 3' in 2025 Championship Chase

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Aditya Pandya | Last updated Aug 27, 2025 5:40 AM ET

The 16 drivers for the playoffs have been decided, as they will all prepare for the upcoming round of 16 now. The grid has received a first-time addition in Shane van Gisbergen as he joins the playoffs for the first time in his career.

Apart from SVG, other known names include William Byron, Kyle Larson, Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and many more. Hence, ahead of the beginning of the eliminators, Kenny Wallace has revealed his pick for the top 3, surprisingly without Larson.

Shane van Gisbergen and Denny Hamlin are tied for the most victories at four wins each in the 2025 season. Joey Logano barely made the cut after winning one race at the Wurth 400 in Texas. William Byron put forth a strong season and led the Cup Series standings ahead of the playoffs. Kyle Larson endured a decent season, with Chase Elliott putting in one of the most consistent performances this year.

Even though Kyle Larson won three races this season with 11 top-five finishes, Kenny Wallace didn’t place him in his top-three pick for the championship winner. Rather, Wallace prioritized William Byron, especially because of his consistency the entire year. The 62-year-old reckoned that Byron could have won many more races this year than just two, as he got beaten like a slide job.

I’m going to go with William Byron. And here’s why. Because William was so consistent all year long, and he had a lot more races won than he (actually) won, but got beat like the slide job.
Kenny Wallace said on Coffee with Kenny.

Apart from Byron, Kenny Wallace made a shocking pick in Denny Hamlin to win his maiden championship in the Cup Series. Subsequently, Wallace had to choose between Christopher Bell and Kyle Larson. Despite Larson’s success this year, the 62-year-old didn’t hesitate to snub the former and pick Bell as his third favorite to win the title.

I’m going to go (with) Denny Hamlin just because you got to. And then… between Christopher Bell and Kyle Larson, I’m going to go (with) Christopher Bell. There they are.
Kenny Wallace added.

NASCAR insiders predict final four drivers in 2025 Cup Championship finale

NASCAR Insiders Jordan Bianchi and Jeff Gluck have shared their opinions on the driver who could emerge victorious in the championship. In the final ten races, anything can happen, but close racing action coupled with thrilling moments on track is certain. Both Bianchi and Gluck revealed their picks for the four drivers that could battle for the championship in the finale at Phoenix.

Jordan Bianchi asserted that he trusted Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, Christopher Bell, and Chase Briscoe to reach the final stage and compete for the coveted Cup Series title. This pick is shocking as Bianchi snubbed Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano completely from the potential championship contenders.

Jeff Gluck had a rather different approach and picked Ryan Blaney, the reigning world champion in Joey Logano, Chase Briscoe, and Denny Hamlin as the final four drivers in the final race. Gluck’s pick is likely to match many other enthusiasts’ picks, as these drivers have showcased great resilience and performance on track this year.

While there are doubts cast on Joey Logano and his winning chances this year due to failing results, he is still a defending champion and can quickly return to his winning ways. The 2025 season has peaked in excitement so far in the regular season. Hence, the playoffs are going to be even more exciting with many highly sought after drivers making it into the playoffs.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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