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Cook out Southern 500 | Darlington Raceway | Mash The Gas Podcast

Author
Kevin Batstone, Jeff Davis, NASCARSky
Published
Tue 02 Sep 2025
Episode Link
None

 The crew is back! 🏎️ Jeff, Sky, and Kevin return to break down all the action from the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. From Briscoe’s domination to off-track controversies, they’ve got you covered with expert analysis, playoff insights, fantasy tips, and plenty of hot takes. 

  • 🏁 Darlington Raceway Recap
    • “The Lady in Black” once again lived up to its nickname as the track too tough to tame.
    • The Cook Out Southern 500 delivered chaos, drama, and heartbreak for many playoff contenders.
  • 🚗 Chase Briscoe’s Dominant Victory
    • Led a staggering 309 of 367 laps with complete control.
    • Wins his second straight Southern 500.
    • First driver locked into the Round of 12.
    • Near-perfect setup, pit execution, and consistency.
  • 🔥 Tyler Reddick’s Late Charge
    • Closed the gap in the final stage with fresher tires.
    • Applied pressure but couldn’t find a way past Briscoe’s #19.
    • Leaves Darlington with solid playoff hopes intact.
  • ⚠️ Playoff Driver Struggles
    • More playoff drivers faced issues than those who didn’t.
    • Mechanical failures, pit mistakes, and Darlington’s brutality took a toll.
    • We break down who’s in the danger zone moving forward.
  • ⚖️ 23XI vs. NASCAR Lawsuit
    • What the legal dispute is really about.
    • How it may reshape team-owner relationships and sponsorships.
    • Potential ripple effect on the sport’s future.
  • 🗣️ Denny Hamlin’s Voice in NASCAR
    • Why Hamlin is now seen as the sport’s unofficial spokesperson.
    • His bold takes on the lawsuit, driver safety, and playoff system.
    • Balancing roles as both driver and owner.
  • 🏆 Playoff Format Debate
    • Does the current system crown the right champion?
    • Consistency vs. single-race wins — what matters most?
    • Possible tweaks to make the format fairer.
  • 🔥 Tony Stewart’s NHRA Accomplishment
    • A salute to “Smoke” for another motorsports milestone.
    • Cementing his legacy across NASCAR, NHRA, and more.
  • 📍 St. Louis Race Preview
    • Gateway track breakdown: what makes it unique.
    • Which drivers and teams may shine under pressure.
    • Key playoff battles to watch in the Round of 16.
    • 🎯 Fantasy tips — who to start, who to avoid, and sleeper picks.

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