Race for Cup title is ‘wide open’ going into Southern 500

DARLINGTON, S.C. — Kevin Harvick has been a part of NASCAR’s postseason 16 times in 19 years, competing in seasons where he was a favorite, seasons where there were multiple favorites and seasons where Jimmie Johnson dominated.

Harvick enters this year’s playoffs ninth in the standings, but he sees endless possibilities going into Sunday’s Southern 500 playoff opener (6 p.m. ET on USA Network).

“It’s just as wide open as I’ve ever seen it,” the 2014 Cup champion said. 

Learning a new car this year has made this a topsy-turvy season. Fifteen of the 16 playoff drivers have won at least one race this season. Since the current format in 2017, the playoff field has never been as close entering the 10-race postseason. Only nine points separate William Byron, who is fifth in the standings, to Austin Dillon, who is 16th. 

Last year’s playoff opener at Darlington Raceway shook up the standings. Nine title contenders finished 15th or worse in that race. Four playoff drivers, including Kyle Busch, William Byron and Chase Elliott failed to finish because of accidents. If such trouble befalls a majority of the playoff contenders, the standings could see significant changes.

Austin Cindric, who is 14th in the standings, goes into Sunday’s race undeterred. 

“We come into the playoffs pretty low on playoff points, but at the same time eight points puts me fifth right now, so it’s pretty tight,” Cindric said. “It’s been a tight season, and I think execution and consistency has been at a premium and I think those that are able to perform in that manner is where I think I have to have my mind.  

“I think we’re gonna have to put three really great races together to move onto the next round and start all over again.”

Daniel Suarez, Cindric,