Los Angeles, Calif. — As the 2025 NASCAR season kicks off with the Busch Light Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, all eyes will be on the sport’s biggest stars. But in a format as unpredictable as the Clash, underdogs have an opportunity to steal the spotlight. With the tight quarters of the quarter-mile track and short sprint races that leave no room for error, the event is ripe for surprises. Here are the underdog drivers to watch as they look to upset the favorites and make a statement.
Harrison Burton
Harrison Burton enters the 2025 season looking to rebound after a challenging 2024 campaign. The Wood Brothers Racing driver has shown flashes of brilliance on short tracks, and the Clash provides a golden opportunity for him to start the year on a high note. Burton’s smooth driving style and patience could pay off on a track where avoiding mistakes is critical.
“This is a chance to reset and prove we can run with the best,” Burton said in a pre-event interview. “The Coliseum suits my style, and I’m ready to give it everything.”
Justin Haley
Justin Haley is no stranger to capitalizing on chaos, and the Clash format plays right into his strengths. Now driving for Rick Ware Racing with support from Stewart-Haas Racing, Haley has a new opportunity to showcase his talent. Known for his ability to stay calm under pressure, Haley could navigate the inevitable bumping and banging to contend for a strong finish.
“Anything can happen in a race like this,” Haley said. “It’s all about putting yourself in the right position at the end, and I feel like we can do that.”
Todd Gilliland
Todd Gilliland quietly impressed in 2024, and he’s carrying momentum into the new season. Driving for Front Row Motorsports, Gilliland has shown he can handle the demands of short-track racing. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, Gilliland could be a dark horse to make it to the main event and fight for a top finish.
“The Clash is unpredictable, and that’s what makes it so exciting,” Gilliland said. “I’m ready to mix it up and see where we stand.”
Ryan Preece
Ryan Preece thrives on short tracks and enters the Clash with high expectations. Driving for Stewart-Haas Racing, Preece has a proven track record in tight, high-pressure situations. His aggressive yet calculated approach makes him a serious threat to the bigger names in the field.
“This is my kind of racing,” Preece said. “Short tracks are where I feel at home, and I’m coming to the Coliseum to win.”
Ty Dillon
Ty Dillon is eager to make his mark with Spire Motorsports after a quiet 2024 season. The Clash format suits Dillon’s no-quit attitude, and his experience could give him an edge over less seasoned competitors. While Spire is still building its program, Dillon has the grit to take advantage of the chaos and earn a standout result.
“This race is unpredictable, and that’s what makes it fun,” Dillon said. “We’re here to show what we can do.”
The Wild Card Factor
The Busch Light Clash is a race unlike any other on the NASCAR calendar. The short track and heat race format mean that a single bold move—or mistake—can make or break a driver’s night. With no points on the line, expect these underdogs to take risks and fight for every inch of track position.
As the stars prepare to shine under the lights of the L.A. Coliseum, don’t overlook the underdogs who could steal the show. Whether it’s a breakout performance or a career-defining moment, the Clash provides the perfect stage for surprises.
