As the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season approaches, analysts have been evaluating drivers’ performances and potential. Based on recent power rankings, here’s an overview of drivers ranked 20th through 11th:
20. Chase Briscoe
Chase Briscoe, entering his fourth year in the Cup Series, faces the challenge of leading Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) following Kevin Harvick’s retirement. Despite a promising start in 2023, a significant penalty after the Coca-Cola 600 impacted his momentum. With SHR aiming for a resurgence, Briscoe’s role is pivotal in steering the team back to its former glory.
19. Erik Jones
Erik Jones experienced a challenging 2023 season, marking the worst of his career. However, optimism surrounds his 2024 prospects as Legacy Motor Club transitions to Toyota. This manufacturer change could provide the boost Jones needs to return to competitive form.
18. Daniel Suárez
Daniel Suárez has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. As he continues with Trackhouse Racing, refining his performance and achieving regular top finishes will be crucial for his ascent in the rankings.
17. Michael McDowell
Michael McDowell has been a steady presence in the Cup Series, known for his strategic racing and occasional standout performances. With Front Row Motorsports, McDowell aims to capitalize on opportunities, especially on superspeedways, to secure notable finishes.
16. Austin Cindric
Driving the No. 2 Team Penske Ford, Austin Cindric returned to the playoffs after a 24th-place finish the previous year. With four top-five finishes and a career-high 256 laps led, Cindric is poised for potential multiple victories in 2025.
15. Ty Gibbs
Ty Gibbs, piloting the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, had a promising start in 2024 but faced challenges in the latter half. With an early offseason, Gibbs is expected to address team issues and return stronger in 2025.
14. Bubba Wallace
Bubba Wallace, driving for 23XI Racing, set career highs in top fives, top 10s, and average finish in 2024 but missed the playoffs. Entering his seventh full-time season, 2025 is pivotal for Wallace to establish himself as a championship contender.
13. Brad Keselowski
Co-owner and driver of the No. 6 RFK Racing Ford, Brad Keselowski returned to Victory Lane in 2024 for the first time since 2021. Despite RFK’s mixed results, Keselowski’s leadership and experience are vital for the team’s upward trajectory.
12. Chris Buescher
Chris Buescher experienced a dip in performance in 2024, missing the playoffs after a three-win season in 2023. However, his emergence as a formidable contender suggests a potential rebound in 2025.
11. Alex Bowman
Alex Bowman concluded the previous season ninth in the standings, showcasing consistency with multiple top-10 finishes during the playoffs. As he continues with Hendrick Motorsports, Bowman aims to build on this momentum and secure more victories in 2025.
These drivers, positioned between 20th and 11th in the preseason power rankings, are poised to make significant impacts in the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series season.
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