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NASCAR Monday Mash-Up: Denny Hamlin gets real with fans at Las Vegas

JHby: Jonathan Howard10/13/25Jondean25
Denny Hamlin NASCAR Las Vegas win
Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Who knew that we would see a sincere and emotional Denny Hamlin after one of the greatest triumphs of his NASCAR career? The win was the defining moment of the weekend at Las Vegas. Let’s get into all the action before heading to Talladega.

Of course, the NASCAR Playoffs featured two races this weekend with the Xfinity Series and Cup Series entering the Round of 8. There were two really great races with exciting finishes. Now, the Championship 4 is starting to come into focus.

There weren’t too many wild moments, but the ones that happened had large impacts on the race and the postseason. Compared to what Talladega is going to bring, it was downright pedestrian in Vegas.

Justin Allgaier puts Xfinity Series on notice, wins pole

A really strong run for Justin Allgaier in qualifying was a reminder that he is not out of this championship race yet. He has all the speed he needs to repeat as champion at Phoenix.

He started out on the pole alongside Connor Zilisch on the outside of the front row. While Allgaier didn’t win the race, he was back to his usual ways of running near the front.

Ross Chastain got into the wall during NASCAR practice

In NASCAR Cup Series practice, Ross Chastain got into the wall and damaged his car. Chastain qualified P15 in the car, but it had to be repaired.

Chastain’s team worked on it and got it right for the race. The only issue is that the 1 team had to drop to the rear for the start. They never really recovered and finished P23.

Kyle Larson wants media, fans to temper expectations

During media availabilities, Kyle Larson had a message for fans and the media. With the newly reported horsepower increase at road courses and tracks less than 1.5 miles, people are getting excited.

Larson warned the media and fans to keep the hype down. I’m not sure if that is going to happen.

Denny Hamlin wins NASCAR Cup pole

A warning shot, perhaps, looking back at it. Denny Hamlin won the pole award for the NASCAR Cup Series race. He beat Chase Briscoe, which is difficult these days.

Hamlin started out on the pole but would only lead 9 laps total. He didn’t really need much else.

Aric Almirola outduels Connor Zilisch for Xfinity win

In the NASCAR Xfinity Series race, Aric Almirola and Connor Zilisch delivered an epic battle. Getting down to the last few laps, it was anybody’s race. The 19 held off the 88 to take the win.

Almirola is racing for the Owners’ Championship in the 19 car. Zilisch is racing for the Owners’ and Drivers’ Championship. Almirola is moving on to Phoenix.

Jesse Love, Nick Sanchez get a little physical on pit road

Following the Xfinity Series race, Jesse Love and Nick Sanchez had a conversation. Love didn’t appreciate how Sanchez raced him late. Then, things almost escalated.

As the two parted ways, Sanchez put a hand on Love’s shoulder. Sanchez was then met with a stiff arm from Love. It didn’t go any further than that.

Ryan Blaney out of NASCAR Playoff race after early wreck

A disaster for Ryan Blaney and the 12 team. Slamming into the wall in Stage 1, Blaney’s car was wrecked and beyond repair.

This has put Blaney in a must-win situation early in this round. Good thing is, he’s won at Dega and Martinsville in the past.

William Byron slams into Ty Dillon, triggering late restarts

What got us into the two late restarts at Las Vegas was William Byron slamming into Ty Dillon. Dillon was trying to pit and was off-sequence. Byron didn’t know. BOOM!

Thankfully, both drivers were released from the infield care center. Still, a scary moment for these drivers. Also, detrimental for Byron’s playoff hopes.

Denny Hamlin tearfully wins Las Vegas Playoff race

As the laps counted down, the tears fell down Denny Hamlin face. He was overcome with emotion as he recorded career win 60 and dedicated it to his father.

It was a moment of sincerity and honesty from Hamlin. The NASCAR fans in attendance had to cheer. A major moment for Hamlin and his career.