How I would go about making a pick for the Busch Light Clash
On Sunday night, NASCAR will officially be back, racing at the LA Coliseum for the 150-lap exhibition, Busch Light Clash. Depending on your fantasy/betting situation, I think the most important variable is to be patient this weekend. This is a unique weekend with practice on Saturday, qualifying on Saturday, and then on Sunday there are Heat Races and Last Chance Qualifier Races which actually set the field. Here’s a GRAPHIC for how the starting lineup will be set. Thru the races on Sunday, the starting lineup will gradually get set. In theory, we won’t know the full field starting lineup until about an hour before the actual race time.
Here’s a full look at the Busch Light Clash Schedule.
Below are the variables I would want in a pick in order of importance.
- The most important variable for me is a strong showing in the Heat Races. Those are short 25 lap simulation races following overnight changes and the winners from those last year, were the strongest drivers in the Clash. The 2022 Clash Heat Race winners were Kyle Busch (2nd in the Clash), Tyler Reddick (led 51 of the 53 laps he completed), Justin Haley (wrecked while battling for 3rd) and of course, overall Clash winner Joey Logano. Being good in Heat Races also comes with the luxury of starting up front at the Coliseum where track position is king. NOTE, this talking point #1 also doubles up with qualifying, because it essentially is.
- Practice. We all know how important practice is. I will note though, changes following practice can make a drastic difference. Last year, practice speeds were fairly reflective overall in terms of strength, but I will note Joey Logano was notably down the speed chart but changes following practice turned his weekend around.
- A strong showing in last year’s race. Last year’s Clash was a year ago and the debut of the Next Gen, but I think last year’s race is still quite relevant, especially at a track that is so unique.
- Martinsville prowess. There’s really no tracks that are great comps for the .25-mile Coliseum, but I think Martinsville is the best despite it literally being twice as big!
- General overall shorter-flat track prowess. Being strong at shorter-flat tracks in general is a plus.