NASCAR odds, predictions for Michigan for Sun. 8/18

The NASCAR Cup Series makes its annual trip to Michigan International Speedway for Sunday's FireKeepers Casino 400 (2:30 p.m. ET, USA).

After securing pole position during qualifying, Denny Hamlin (+500) is the betting favorite for Michigan according to NASCAR odds from bet365, followed by Kyle Larson (+600), Martin Truex Jr. (+600), Ryan Blaney (+800) and Chase Elliott (+800).

And when it comes to Sunday's race at Michigan, my favorite NASCAR prediction comes from this group of favorites.

A Favorite With Value Based on NASCAR Odds for Michigan

*Odds as of Sunday morning

Martin Truex Jr. had the best car in this race one year ago, posting the best driver rating, running the most fast laps, and leading the second-most laps en route to a second-place finish.

The No. 19 Toyota picked up right where it left off last year during Saturday's practice session, running the fastest five- and 10-lap averages.

Truex did struggle to a 24th-place qualifying effort, however, and that is likely why he's not the race favorite and available at 7-1 odds (DraftKings) heading into today's race.

While track position is always hugely important, especially in the Next Gen car, fast cars can pick their way through the field over the course of 400 miles at Michigan, which is what I'm expecting from Truex on Sunday afternoon.

Please note that Truex does vary from +550 to +700 odds depending on the sportsbook as of the time of writing, so be sure to shop for the best price possible if backing the Joe Gibbs Racing driver for Sunday's Cabo Wabo 400 at Michigan.

The bet: Martin Truex Jr. (+700 at DraftKings)