The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Dover Motor Speedway this weekend for one of the most demanding races on the calendar. Nicknamed the “Monster Mile,” Dover’s high-banked concrete oval is notorious for chewing up tires, punishing mistakes, and rewarding drivers who can stay smooth over long green-flag runs.
As fans gear up for a thrilling showdown, @Husker_Zeeb takes a closer look at the odds and highlights his favorite plays heading into Sunday’s race.
🏆 The Favorites
📈 Kyle Larson (+400)
Larson has been on a tear this season and is always a threat at high-speed tracks. With two Dover wins under his belt, he enters as the favorite, and rightfully so. His ability to run the high line and manage long runs makes him dangerous here.
📈 Denny Hamlin (+450)
Hamlin is another strong play. He’s been fast everywhere this year and is still searching for his first Dover win — could this be the week he checks the Monster Mile off his list?
📈 Chase Elliott (+500)
Elliott won at Dover in 2022 and has the consistency to stay in the mix. If Hendrick Motorsports brings speed (as they usually do here), Elliott is a strong contender.
🚨 Value Picks
💰 Ross Chastain (+1200)
Chastain has been knocking on the door for another win, and Dover fits his aggressive style. If he can keep his composure in traffic, the No. 1 car could pay off big at 12-to-1.
💰 Alex Bowman (+1800)
Bowman won at Dover in 2021 and tends to thrive on concrete surfaces. At 18-to-1, he’s a sneaky play for bettors looking for a mid-tier driver with winning upside.
🎯 Best Bets
✅ Top-5 Finish: Christopher Bell (+160)
Bell’s short-track speed has been impressive this season, and while Dover isn’t technically a short track, it races like one. A top-5 bet here offers solid value.
✅ Head-to-Head: Kevin Harvick over Martin Truex Jr. (-110)
Harvick has an incredible record at Dover, including three career wins. In a head-to-head with Truex, Harvick’s consistency gives him the edge.
📝 The Monster Factor
Dover is known for unpredictability — a single mistake can wipe out multiple contenders in a flash. Betting here requires a balance of picking favorites with solid track records and sprinkling in value plays who can capitalize on chaos.
As @Husker_Zeeb puts it: “The Monster Mile doesn’t forgive, but it does reward bold bets. Find drivers with track discipline and teams who can nail pit strategy, and you’ll have a shot to cash in.”
Who’s your pick to tame the Monster this weekend? Drop your bets below. 🏁💸
