Tyler Reddick may have won the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series regular-season championship, but his playoff run didn’t end with the ultimate prize. After an impressive first 26 races, Reddick and the No. 45 23XI Racing team weren’t able to carry that dominance through the postseason. Yet, despite the challenges, Reddick views his playoff performance as a sign of progress—not a failure.
From Regular-Season King to Playoff Ups and Downs
Reddick’s 2024 regular season was nothing short of impressive. His consistency, speed, and adaptability helped him secure the top spot in the standings heading into the playoffs, a major milestone for 23XI Racing in just its fourth season of existence.
However, once the postseason began, things didn’t go as smoothly. While he remained competitive, he didn’t have the same level of dominance he had shown earlier in the year. Mechanical issues, strategy missteps, and just plain bad luck kept him from mounting a deep championship push.
Still, Reddick isn’t discouraged. In fact, he sees their playoff run as a learning experience—one that could be the missing piece in winning a title in 2025.
Reddick: “We Have What It Takes”
Speaking to NASCAR on FOX, Reddick made it clear that the playoffs weren’t a disappointment in his eyes. Instead, they proved that his team is capable of competing for a championship—they just need to refine a few things.
“We weren’t as strong as we wanted to be, but we showed flashes of being a championship-caliber team,” Reddick explained. “The key now is taking what we learned and applying it moving forward.”
One of the biggest takeaways from Reddick’s 2024 season was his ability to run well across all types of tracks. Whether it was short tracks, superspeedways, or road courses, he proved that he could be a threat anywhere. That versatility is what gives him confidence heading into 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While 2024 didn’t end with a championship trophy, it laid the groundwork for what could be a breakthrough year for Reddick and 23XI Racing. With the experience of Denny Hamlin’s leadership and the continued growth of the team, the No. 45 group is building toward something bigger.
“We know where we need to improve,” Reddick said. “Now it’s just about putting it all together when it matters most.”
If Reddick and his team can take those lessons and turn them into stronger playoff performances in 2025, there’s a very real chance that he won’t just be celebrating another regular-season title—he could be lifting the Bill France Cup at Phoenix.
