North Wilkesboro All-Star Race Front Runner Rankings/ Mid Pack Predictions
Kyle Busch – At North Wilkesboro, I wouldn’t count out Kyle Busch. Busch is a versatile driver who’s raced all across the country at all sorts of different short tracks that are likely comparable to North Wilkesboro, so I’m sure he’ll be prepared for what awaits. That said, Busch didn’t look good at Richmond this spring (14th), and Martinsville where he finished 21st wasn’t any better. In terms of Total Speed Rankings between both races, Busch ranks 24th. On Sunday, I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s a factor, but I think the #8 is more so primed for a mid-pack day.
Chase Briscoe – Chase Briscoe is an aggressive racer, so don’t overlook him in the All-Star Race. He’s been stinking things up recently, but we could have a sighting of him this weekend. North Wilkesboro is a shorter-flat track, and Briscoe steps up his game on this sub-track type. Since 2022 over the combined races at shorter-flat tracks, Briscoe has 1-win, a 12.4 average finish and in 50% of the races he’s finished in the top ten. This spring at Richmond, Briscoe finished 12th, had a 13.5 average running position and had the 15th best Total Speed Ranking. At Martinsville which I view to be the next most similar track, Briscoe finished 5th this spring. Additionally at Martinsville, Briscoe earned the best driver rating, led 109 laps, was tied for having a race best 4.8 average running position and his Total Speed Ranking was the 4th best.
Tyler Reddick – Tyler Reddick tested at North Wilkesboro this spring, but don’t view that as a game changer. I would just view it as a nice plus. This weekend, I can’t say I’m too bullish on Reddick. Richmond and Martinsville have proven to be key trouble spots on the schedule for him, so I would just avoid him. At Richmond which I view to be the most similar track, Reddick has never finished in the top ten and this spring he finished 16th (21st best Total Speed Ranking).
