Watkins Glen is set to host the second race of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs.
Goodyear has rolled out a new tire compound, resulting in a tire falloff of 2.7 seconds after just 15 laps during practice. For the race, a drop of at least three seconds is anticipated over the course of a fuel run.
This makes practice essential for evaluating how drivers perform over the long haul, considering that having fresh tires offers a significant advantage.
This is a key aspect I will focus on when making my NASCAR DFS selections for Watkins Glen.
Before diving into my picks, remember that you can find all my NASCAR projections in the NASCAR Models on FantasyLabs, which includes metrics like floor, ceiling, median, and ownership projections.
Let’s not overlook the highlight — my Perfect% metric — which reveals how frequently specific drivers appear in the optimal lineup after running 10,000 race simulations.
Additionally, don’t miss the fantastic tools provided by FantasyLabs, such as our Lineup Optimizer, which enables you to create up to 300 lineups effortlessly, or our Lineup Builder for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.
Here are my NASCAR DFS picks for the Go Bowling at The Glen race at Watkins Glen.
Go Bowling at The Glen DraftKings DFS Cash Game Strategy
For this race, we’ll need to choose drivers we believe have competitive race cars, aiming for the best combination of place differential and finishing position.
The foremost cash-game selection is Chris Buescher ($8300), who starts in 24th but had an impressive practice session. Although practice was structured into two groups with separate sessions, Buescher stood out amongst the top drivers from Group A during the second — and arguably more critical — practice session. In the Next Gen era, Buescher has finished 11th or higher in every road-course event except for Chicago.
Kyle Larson ($10,500): Similar to Buescher, Larson was remarkably fast in the second Group A practice session, clocking times comparable to those of Michael McDowell, who achieved the fastest 15-lap average across all four sessions. With Hendrick Motorsports winning the last five races at Watkins Glen, Larson is poised to be a reliable contender on Sunday as he seeks to maintain his playoff points position without incident.
Unconventionally, I am considering fading Tyler Reddick ($9500), which may be more suited for tournaments; however, I find it appealing for cash games as well. Reddick recorded the best five and ten-lap average times, largely due to his performance in the first Group A session on a clean track. During his group, Reddick lagged behind six other cars in laps 8-12 of the first session and followed a crowd of competitors in the second session. He did not exude confidence in his TV interview, yet his reputation, short-run speed, and prior testing at this track are likely to make him highly owned.
Go Bowling at The Glen DraftKings DFS Tournament Strategy and Picks
This race is unpredictable, so I suggest we prioritize finishing position, place differential, and salary much like I recommended earlier.
In my view, the best values available are Michael McDowell ($8500) and Daniel Suarez ($7900). McDowell demonstrated one of the best long-run cars in Group A, while Suarez showcased himself as the standout in Group B throughout both sessions. Both drivers offer strong potential for place differential as they start 10th (McDowell) and eighth (Suarez), respectively.
Chase Elliott ($10,000) is another driver I’m very interested in, especially knowing that many will gravitate towards Reddick, Martin Truex Jr., and others who start behind him. Elliott was part of the group that exhibited excellent long-run speed in the second Group A session alongside McDowell, Larson, and Buescher, yet he seems to be flying under the radar. I would gladly support the under-owned road-course expert.
I feel compelled to select Juan Pablo Montoya ($8000) for tournaments. He may end up being over-owned due to his reputation as a road-course specialist, but his practice times were surprisingly strong!
In session 1, Montoya recorded the third-best average from laps 8-12. He kept pace close to the lead group in the second session. Starting from 34th, he is bound to move forward. Assuming no issues arise, I anticipate he will feature in the optimal lineup, which leads me to believe it’s wise to be significantly overweight on him, almost to the point of jest.
Navigating the Go Bowling at The Glen: Key DFS Strategies and Picks for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Race
Understanding the Go Bowling at The Glen Race
The Go Bowling at The Glen is a pivotal event in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series, taking place on the iconic Watkins Glen International road course. This race is crucial as it forms part of the NASCAR Playoffs, where every point matters. For Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of this event can significantly enhance your chances of success.
Key DFS Strategies for the Go Bowling at The Glen
When participating in DFS contests for the Go Bowling at The Glen, it’s essential to adopt specific strategies that can help you maximize your lineup’s potential. Here are some critical strategies to consider:
1. Analyze Driver Performance on Road Courses
- Road Course Specialists: Focus on drivers who excel on road courses. Look for statistics that show their average finish and top-10 finishes at similar tracks.
- Recent Form: Evaluate how drivers have performed in the last few races leading up to The Glen. Recent form can often be a better indicator of performance than overall season stats.
2. Track Position and Qualifying
- Qualifying Matters: Track position is vital on road courses. Pay attention to qualifying results, as starting at the front can lead to better finishing positions.
- DFS Scoring Implications: Remember that drivers can earn points for leading laps. Choose a mix of drivers who can both start strong and lead during the race.
3. Weather and Track Conditions
Weather can play a crucial role in the Go Bowling at The Glen. Rain can affect track conditions and strategy. Monitor weather forecasts leading up to the race and consider how these conditions might impact performance.
Top Driver Picks for the 2024 Go Bowling at The Glen
Identifying the right drivers for your DFS lineup is essential. Here are some top picks for the Go Bowling at The Glen based on historical performance and current form:
| Driver | Average Finish at Watkins Glen | 2024 Season Performance | Road Course Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Cindric | 8.2 | Strong finishes in last 5 races | 1 |
| Chase Elliott | 5.1 | Consistently in the top 5 | 3 |
| Martin Truex Jr. | 6.5 | Strong road course stats | 2 |
| Kyle Larson | 7.4 | Improving form this season | 1 |
| Denny Hamlin | 9.0 | Solid finishes, great at Watkins Glen | 0 |
Benefits of DFS for NASCAR Fans
Participating in Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) for NASCAR, particularly for events like the Go Bowling at The Glen, offers several benefits:
- Engagement: DFS adds an extra layer of excitement to the race, making it more engaging as you root for your selected drivers.
- Strategic Thinking: Crafting your lineup requires research and strategic thinking, enhancing your understanding of the sport.
- Potential for Earnings: With the right strategies and picks, you can turn your NASCAR knowledge into real monetary gains.
Practical Tips for Building Your DFS Lineup
Here are some practical tips to help you build a winning DFS lineup for the Go Bowling at The Glen:
- Diversify Your Picks: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversify your driver selections to mitigate risk.
- Don’t Ignore Value Picks: Look for mid-range drivers who offer great value for their price. They can often outperform their expected finish.
- Utilize Expert Insights: Follow expert analyses, podcasts, and articles leading up to the race for additional insights and tips.
- Monitor Social Media: Pay attention to driver updates, team news, and any potential last-minute changes that could impact performance.
Case Studies: Winning DFS Lineups from Previous Years
Analyzing winning DFS lineups from previous Go Bowling at The Glen races can provide valuable insights. Here’s a breakdown of a winning lineup from the 2023 race:
| Driver | Position Started | Position Finished | Points Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Elliott | 2 | 1 | 70 |
| Kyle Larson | 4 | 5 | 65 |
| Martin Truex Jr. | 6 | 3 | 68 |
| Denny Hamlin | 10 | 8 | 62 |
| Austin Cindric | 12 | 10 | 60 |
First-Hand Experience: Tips from A Seasoned DFS Player
As a seasoned DFS player, I’ve learned several lessons that have proven invaluable for races like the Go Bowling at The Glen:
- Trust Your Research: Always rely on data and analysis rather than emotions. It’s easy to be swayed by popular opinion.
- Practice Bankroll Management: Set a budget for each contest and stick to it. Responsible betting is crucial for long-term success.
- Review Post-Race Analytics: After the race, review your lineup’s performance to identify what worked and what didn’t for future reference.
Conclusion
By employing these DFS strategies for the Go Bowling at The Glen, leveraging the right driver picks, and keeping up with race dynamics, you can significantly enhance your chances of success in NASCAR DFS contests. Remember to conduct thorough research, monitor performance trends, and enjoy the thrilling experience of NASCAR racing!
