After a successful run at Darlington, we encountered challenges with the RNG machine that is superspeedway racing during the Atlanta race. Although my approach of stacking Fords appeared promising, its effectiveness largely depended on the specific Fords selected. All three Team Penske drivers—Austin Cindric, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney—performed admirably, but several accidents took out other drivers, and strategic miscalculations affected others’ performances. Will we be able to recover this weekend? Let’s explore our top NASCAR DFS selections for the 2024 Go Bowling at the Glen, featuring Kyle Larson.
NASCAR DFS Picks: Top Drivers for the 2024 Go Bowling at the Glen | Watkins Glen
2024 Go Bowling at the Glen NASCAR DFS Picks & Strategy | Watkins Glen International
Check out Stokastic’s industry-leading NASCAR DFS projections, as well as our top drivers tool and guide to NASCAR DFS strategy!
NASCAR DFS strategy typically involves a choice between stacking the back for place differential points or stacking the front for dominator points. Short tracks favor stacking the front due to the number of laps that offer leading opportunities and the challenge of overtaking. Conversely, road courses like Watkins Glen feature fewer laps, resulting in reduced potential for stacking advantages.
Nevertheless, in both races held at Watkins Glen during the NextGen era (2022-present), the winners started from the front row, and the driver leading the most laps in each event also began there. This year, however, the Watkins Glen race takes place in September as part of the playoffs, introducing additional strategic elements. Playoff contenders will likely prioritize good stage finishes over final positions in their pursuit of points.
On the other hand, drivers not involved in the playoffs have only the race win to chase. Noteworthy names in this category include Shane Van Gisbergen, Chris Buescher, and pole-sitter Ross Chastain. Since stage points do not contribute to NASCAR DFS scoring, optimal lineups will probably include multiple drivers outside the playoff race.
Additional NASCAR DFS strategy considerations pertain to the track and tires. The new curbing in the bus stop will likely slow down the pace a bit, which could favor drivers with road course experience. The newly introduced tire compound will heighten tire wear, demanding that drivers manage significant fall-off during longer stints. These changes should benefit technically skilled road course drivers and may lead to more caution periods, which would advantage drivers starting from the back.
Tyler Reddick & Kyle Larson
With qualifying completed, two standout drivers emerge as essential candidates for your NASCAR DFS lineup at Watkins Glen. While there’s always the possibility of trouble for either, Kyle Larson ($10,500), starting in 20th, and Tyler Reddick ($9,500), starting in 16th, should accrue place differential points throughout the race. While their strategic calls to collect stage points might hinder their progress, both are expected to finish significantly ahead of their starting positions.
Despite a subpar qualifying result, Reddick showcased the fastest lap and the best 10-lap average during practice, which is vital given the anticipated tire wear. If he can maintain a competitive pace on worn tires, he’s likely to finish well ahead by race end. Larson achieved the third-fastest single lap and sixth-fastest average during practice. Both drivers should be included in your cash game lineups.
Although it may be tempting to exclude one or both of these drivers in tournament plays, I anticipate they will approach this race cautiously, especially since neither is guaranteed a spot in the Round of 12. The potential upside for both drivers this week is quite significant.
Kaz Grala
To incorporate both Tyler Reddick and Kyle Larson into your NASCAR DFS lineup, you’ll need to identify at least one budget-friendly driver. Thankfully, DraftKings offers us a solid option: Kaz Grala ($5,200) is the least expensive driver in the lineup. While Grala is not a serious contender for a win or a top-10 finish, he will be starting in 38th place, giving him ample opportunity to improve throughout the day.
Grala’s No. 15 Ford may not be the fastest, but it is unlikely to be the slowest either; he recorded the 31st-fastest single-lap time in qualifying and didn’t attempt a 10-lap run. Additionally, Grala has performed respectably at road courses in the past, finishing seventh in his Cup Series debut at the Glen while substituting for Austin Dillon in 2020.
This year, Grala has had three starts on road and street courses, with varying results: he began 23rd and ended 27th at COTA, started 36th and finished 23rd at Sonoma, and began 40th and finished 26th at Chicago Street. If Grala can avoid trouble and remain on the lead lap, he should complete all laps at the Glen—more than many other drivers will manage to do. As a cost-effective option, Grala presents an excellent play with a strong floor.
2024 NASCAR DFS Picks: Top Drivers and Strategy for the Go Bowling at the Glen
Understanding the Go Bowling at the Glen
The Go Bowling at the Glen is one of the most anticipated road courses on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule. Set at Watkins Glen International in New York, this race features a unique configuration that requires a blend of skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of the drivers’ performance on road courses. With the race approaching, it’s essential to optimize your Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) lineup to maximize your chances of winning.
Key Factors for DFS Success in Road Courses
- Driver Skillset: Look for drivers with a proven track record on road courses. They typically excel in braking, cornering, and managing tire wear.
- Practice and Qualifying: Pay attention to practice times and qualifying results as they can heavily influence the starting grid and potential performance.
- Historical Performance: Analyze past performances in similar races to gauge which drivers might excel based on their history at Watkins Glen.
- Team Strategy: Consider the teams’ strategies regarding pit stops and tire choices, as these can affect overall race outcomes.
Top DFS Picks for the Go Bowling at the Glen
Based on recent performances, historical data, and the unique characteristics of Watkins Glen, here are the top drivers to consider for your 2024 NASCAR DFS lineup:
1. Chase Elliott
Chase Elliott has established himself as a true road-course specialist. With a knack for navigating tricky corners and executing flawless pit strategies, he is a must-have in your lineup.
- 2023 Stats: 2 wins on road courses, average finish of 5.2
- Historical Performance: 3rd average finish at Watkins Glen over the last three years
2. Kyle Larson
Kyle Larson’s versatility makes him another essential pick. His aggressive driving style and ability to adapt to different track conditions can yield high points on race day.
- 2023 Stats: 1 win on road courses, average finish of 7.5
- Historical Performance: Recent top-5 finishes at Watkins Glen
3. Martin Truex Jr.
Truex has been a consistent performer on road courses. His deep understanding of tire strategy and ability to read the race can lead to significant DFS points.
- 2023 Stats: 1 top-5 finish on road courses
- Historical Performance: 2nd average finish at Watkins Glen
4. Denny Hamlin
Denny Hamlin’s experience and tactical acumen make him a strong candidate for your DFS roster. He often finds ways to navigate through the field efficiently.
- 2023 Stats: 1 win on road courses
- Historical Performance: Consistently finishes in the top 10
5. Roval Winners: AJ Allmendinger and Chris Buescher
Both AJ Allmendinger and Chris Buescher have shown exceptional talent on road courses, making them valuable sleeper picks.
- 2023 Stats: Both drivers have shown strong qualifying positions and good racecraft.
- Historical Performance: Solid finishes in recent road course races
Building Your DFS Lineup: Strategy and Tips
When constructing your DFS lineup for the Go Bowling at the Glen, consider the following strategies:
1. Balance High-Priced Stars with Value Picks
While it’s tempting to stack your lineup with high-priced drivers, consider including a couple of value picks who can outperform their salary. This gives you the flexibility to maximize your total points.
2. Keep an Eye on Weather Conditions
Weather can significantly impact race day conditions. Rain can lead to unpredictable outcomes and may favor drivers who excel in wet conditions. Monitor forecasts leading up to the race.
3. Analyze Starting Positions
Starting position can be crucial in road course races. Drivers starting towards the front have a higher probability of maintaining track position, which can affect your DFS scoring.
4. Utilize Historical Data
Leverage historical data to identify trends. For instance, some drivers may perform exceptionally well in specific situations, such as starting from the front or racing in particular weather conditions.
5. Stay Updated on News and Trends
Follow the latest news regarding driver injuries, team changes, and strategy updates. Late breaking news can significantly alter the fantasy landscape.
Case Study: Past Winners at the Go Bowling at the Glen
| Year | Winner | Starting Position | Average Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Chase Elliott | 2nd | 1st |
| 2022 | Kyle Larson | 1st | 1st |
| 2021 | Martin Truex Jr. | 6th | 3rd |
Practical Tips for Maximizing Your DFS Experience
- Utilize Simulation Tools: Consider using simulation tools to model race outcomes based on various scenarios. This helps in making more informed decisions.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in forums and discussions to gain insights from fellow NASCAR enthusiasts and DFS players.
- Review Your Lineup Post-Race: Analyze your lineup after the race to identify what worked and what didn’t, refining your strategy for future races.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Daily Fantasy Players
Many DFS players emphasize the importance of road course experience when selecting drivers. A common theme among successful players is the preference for picking drivers with a solid understanding of track dynamics and previous road course success.
In discussing their strategies, players often highlight the significance of practice sessions. “Watching practice can be as critical as the race itself,” says one veteran player. “It gives you a sense of how drivers handle the track leading up to race day.”
Conclusion
As the 2024 Go Bowling at the Glen approaches, utilizing these strategies and insights can substantially enhance your NASCAR DFS lineup. Focus on the drivers best suited for road courses, stay updated on race-day conditions, and analyze historical data to give yourself the best chance at victory.
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