Intensity was at its peak for 165 laps, but most of the action came in the final 20 of Saturday’s Cup race at Daytona International Speedway.
Six of the top 10 drivers lined up for the overtime restart needed a win to secure the final playoff spot of the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series season. But instead, it was a previous race winner who prevailed.
Ryan Blaney jumped to the lead off the final restart and held his position as cars wrecked behind him to close a high-stress race that ended under caution.
Chris Buescher finished second and Bubba Wallace finished third, while Tyler Reddick secured the final playoff spot on points.
Kyle Larson clinched the regular season championship.
