The upcoming Autotrader 400 at EchoPark Speedway, scheduled for Sunday, February 22, is set to be a thrilling continuation of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series, especially following the exhilarating finish to last week’s Daytona 500. Tyler Reddick clinched victory at Daytona in dramatic fashion, navigating through two last-lap crashes to secure the win. With Reddick’s success at 35-1 odds, the anticipation for the Autotrader 400 is heightened, setting the stage for both elite drivers and potential longshot triumphs.
Renowned sports analyst Mike McClure has identified key underdogs for this race, highlighting Denny Hamlin as a significant contender. With 60 career wins, the 45-year-old ranks second among active drivers in Cup Series victories, including one notable win in Atlanta. Despite not achieving victory as frequently in Atlanta as at other tracks, his odds have slipped to 18-1, presenting a compelling value opportunity.
Brad Keselowski and Kyle Busch are also part of the intriguing longshot narrative. Keselowski, with odds set at 20-1, performed impressively with a fifth-place finish at Daytona and previously secured a second-place finish in his last run at EchoPark. His record of two wins in Atlanta—the most among current drivers—amplifies his appeal as a bet.
Kyle Busch, the leading active driver with 63 Cup Series wins, holds an impressive average finish of 13.1 at EchoPark. His recent performance at Atlanta showcases his capability, boasting an 8.8 average finish over the past six races at the venue, making him a valuable option at the same 20-1 odds.
For those eyeing the race, McClure’s data-driven model simulates each NASCAR event and has a successful track record, with numerous winners predicted over recent seasons. As this season progresses, the Autotrader 400 provides an exciting opportunity for fans and bettors alike to witness top-tier racing and possibly lucrative returns on investment.
Anticipation builds as the green flag drops at 3 p.m. ET, marking a pivotal moment in the season that promises excitement and potential surprises, echoing the unpredictability that makes NASCAR thrilling to watch.