Here’s who NBC’s writers think will triumph today at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (3 p.m. ET on NBCSN).
Dustin Long
Kyle Busch opens the playoffs with a win. If you’re looking to cash big, go with a trifecta of Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick and Ryan Blaney to go 1-2-3.
Nate Ryan
Kevin Harvick. This is his season, and he’ll set the tone in the opener.
Daniel McFadin
Ryan Newman plays spoiler in the playoff opener a day after announcing his departure from Richard Childress Racing.
Dan Beaver
The last time Erik Jones won a Cup pole, he finished second at Bristol last fall. A year’s worth of experience will make the difference at Vegas.