Speedweeks: The Duels @ Daytona

February 16, 2023

'22 CHAMP & BACON MAN

Dad Vibes at the Duels & Surprising Saves

The winners of tonight's duel races were (1) Joey Logano and (2) Aric Almirola.

Biggest stories of the day were Kyle Busch after a dominant lead was spun off the nose of an overly-aggressive Suarez taking notes from teammate' Chastain's playbook. As a result of the crash, Connor Daly squeaked his way into Sunday after obvious struggles with handling as soon as the tires hit pavement. This same #50 ride was previously turned down by Penske Indy Champ Helio Castroneves.

Todd Gilliland was defending P2 when the #5 of Larson got him loose onto the apron but a tremendous reaction on his part saved the field from a second wreck. This comes just a day after the second year driver picked up new seats with Rick Ware after Front Row cut him 6 races to give Truck series King, Zane Smith some Cup level track time.

Z. Smith qualified with a solid run in Duel 1, ending in P8.

Some of the most highly anticipated drivers to join the field were Jimmie Johnson for Legacy Motor Club in the #84 and Travis Pastrana, #67, driving in the open for 23XI racing. Both locked in their spots by way of qualifying speed yesterday. Pastrana, clearly estastic to be running his debut, and who had a special Black Rifle paint scheme to honor the legacy and memory of Ken Block, shared a touching moment post-race with the Block family.

Austin Cindric, the defending Daytona winner took P2 in Duel #2 and will start on row 3 across from Christopher Bell.

RFK made a comeback showing of P9 & 10 in Duel #2 after being sent home as Clash Heat casualties.

Chase Elliott wasted no time going public with product placement of new sponser Coca-Cola. The #9 needed a replacement after Ashoc energy failed to renew a contract in early January. Looks like the Elliott family relationship with legendary branding will continue.

Ryan Blaney once again gets the MVP assist for the win. Winless last season, he hopes to turn that around as he pushed teammate his teammate to checkered. Joey Logano or Joey "ogan" as a Fox Sports replay graphic blundered on live TV, isn't the only thing Fox Sports is getting flack for. Fans and drivers alike have been commenting on the horrific "cartoon" avatars of drivers used on FS1. There has been some outcry to have these banned.

Plenty of racing still ahead this week. Stay tuned and see ya 'round.

@Mere.Bernhard