Imagine the pressure cooker of the NASCAR playoffs – the stakes are sky-high, careers are on the line, and every single position matters. Then, picture Denny Hamlin seizing control right from the start at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. That's exactly what happened, and it's a huge advantage heading into the South Point 400! Hamlin clocked in at a blistering 184.849 mph in qualifying, securing the coveted pole position. This marks his third pole of the entire playoff season, a testament to his consistent performance under pressure. But here's where it gets controversial... some might argue that starting on pole is overrated, that the race is won on Sunday, not Saturday. What do you think? Does pole position truly translate to a significant advantage in a race like the South Point 400?
It wasn’t just Hamlin dominating the qualifying session; his Joe Gibbs Racing team showed incredible strength. In fact, JGR drivers locked out the top three starting positions! Chase Briscoe, Hamlin's teammate, will start alongside him on the front row, adding extra firepower to the JGR contingent. Christopher Bell will be right behind them in third, making it a formidable trio to contend with. This kind of team dominance can influence race strategy, allowing them to work together and control the pace.
And this is the part most people miss... while Joe Gibbs Racing was flexing its muscles, Hendrick Motorsports wasn't far behind, demonstrating the intense competition at the top. Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Kyle Larson, all driving for Hendrick Motorsports, will start in fourth, fifth, and sixth places, respectively. This means the first six positions are occupied entirely by playoff drivers, setting the stage for an incredibly competitive race. It’s a clear indication that the drivers who are still in contention for the championship are bringing their A-game.
Team Penske, however, faced a slightly tougher qualifying session. Joey Logano will start ninth, while Ryan Blaney finds himself further back in 16th. This puts them at a disadvantage from the start, requiring them to fight their way through the field. The difference in qualifying performance highlights the fine margins that can separate success and struggle in NASCAR. It will be interesting to see how they recover during the race. Can they overcome their starting positions and challenge for the win?
Completing the top 10 starting positions are Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, and Ty Gibbs. These drivers will be eager to make their presence felt and challenge the frontrunners. With such a competitive field, the South Point 400 promises to be an action-packed event from start to finish.
The South Point 400 is set to air tomorrow, Sunday, October 12th, at 5:30 p.m. ET on the USA Network. Make sure to tune in to witness the drama unfold!
[Qualifying Results: (https://www.jayski.com/nascar-cup-series/2025-nascar-cup-series-south-point-400-at-las-vegas-motor-speedway-qualifying-results/)]
Article by Thomas Dunn, Frontstretch Writer
Thomas Dunn is a first-year NASCAR reporter for Frontstretch. With over 15 years of fandom rooted in the Bay Area, his passion for the sport ignited through the legendary Jeff Gordon. Thomas has enjoyed many trips to Sonoma Raceway and also covers college football in the Bay Area, with a focus on the California Golden Bears. What are your predictions for the South Point 400? Will Denny Hamlin convert his pole position into a victory, or will someone else steal the show? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
