Back of the Pack, But Not Done Yet: Kyle Busch’s Darlington Fight Starts at P23
Darlington, SC – At the storied “Track Too Tough to Tame,” Kyle Busch faces an uphill climb. Starting from P23 in the Cook Out Southern 500, the two-time NASCAR Cup champion has his work cut out—but if history is any guide, he’s far from out of the race.
Why P23 Isn’t a Death Sentence
Track layout demands resilience: Darlington’s infamous egg-shaped oval, with its distinctively different ends, punishes mistakes and rewards drivers who patiently pick their way through chaos . Value in place differential: Drivers like Busch, who finished 10th in the spring Darlington race, often offer strong upside when starting deep in the field. Analysts have flagged him and Alex Bowman as “good value plays” for their ability to gain significant ground .
Season Context: A Veteran Under Pressure
Busch’s start position isn’t just a stroke of misfortune—it reflects a challenging season. With a lengthy winless streak and younger rivals emerging, a Rockies-like comeback feels more critical than ever . In recent races, Busch’s speed has shown flashes of his former greatness, but closing the deal remains elusive .
Climbing the Field: How He Can Do It
Early aggression pays: With strategies favoring bold moves off the start, Busch must navigate early traffic cleanly while carving out positions. Pit strategy and consistency: Clean execution on pit road and capitalizing on stage breaks could help him jump into the top 15 or better. Survive the chaos: Darlington often dishes out laps under caution and track mayhem—the kind of environment Busch can use to his advantage. Follow proven patterns: Other mid-range starters have surged before thanks to a potent mix of pace and patience.
What’s at Stake
The Cook Out Southern 500 marks the opening salvo of the playoffs. While Busch is outside the championship hunt this year, every point matters for pride, momentum, and team morale. A strong run—especially ripping through the field—could reassert his enduring competitiveness in a season dominated by emerging stars.
Final Lap Thoughts
Starting in P23 at Darlington isn’t ideal, but Kyle Busch’s combination of experience, strategic nous, and that never-say-die drive gives him a fighting chance. If the race descends into unpredictability, expect Busch to be charging through the field—and reminding the sport why he’s still one to watch.
