In the hyper-aggressive world of stock car racing, it’s not just a few race wins or one good season that makes one a legend. To have their names etched in the chronicles of racing history, drivers need both consistency and longevity. Among the few such names in the Cup series arena is the veteran, Brad Keselowski.

As the NASCAR season progresses, there will be a number of eyes on the #6 Ford Mustang, eager to see if the driver can break through the door to victory lane and cement his place in the playoffs. However, the odds do not seem to be in his favor.

The forgotten champion’s battle for respect in NASCAR

In a recent episode of the popular betting-centered podcast, Dirty Mo Dough, host Steve Letarte took a stand for Keselowski. He expressed his concern over the lack of recognition and respect he’s been receiving from the industry.

The former HMS crew chief Letarte initiated the discussion by addressing Keselowski’s current standing in the Cup Series predictor and how it seemingly undermines his capabilities on the track. His co-host, The Professor, responded emphatically, reinforcing Keselowski’s recent accomplishments and the noteworthy strides made by RFK Racing.

Keselowski’s performances in the last two races in Atlanta and Loudon were impressive, and he finished 6th and 5th, respectively. Moreover, the hosts consider him an underdog for a top-10 finish, providing plus-money odds.

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“Solid middle Tier 2 driver Brad Keselowski. You have him solidly inside the top 10 on the predictor, and the book has given him no respect. He’s 16th-favorite on the book, 35-to-1, he’s plus money for a top 10,” Letarte stated.

Brad Keselowski is knocking on the door to victory lane after an impressive performance at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway. This makes one wonder, what were the strong efforts of Brad Keselowski and his crew chief at NHMS that led to Letarte favoring the veteran? 

Pit crew perfection: How Brad Keselowski’s team gained the upper hand

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Starting the race in New Hampshire from the ninth position, the 39-year-old showed determination and skill throughout the event. In Stage 1, he competed admirably but missed out on stage points, finishing in 12th place. However, a remarkable pit stop by the #6 RFK Racing pit crew and excellent car adjustments by crew chief Matt McCall allowed Keselowski to remain in the top 10 for Stage 2.

During Stage 2, Keselowski’s hard work paid off as he secured 3 stage points with an 8th-place finish. Heading into the final Stage, McCall and Keselowski made a strategic call not to pit with a large portion of the field, gaining valuable track position and moving into the top 5.

The race saw an 80-lap green flag run, allowing Keselowski’s pit strategy to play out effectively. Throughout the 301-lap battle on a hot and humid day, Keselowski was one of only two drivers who did not fall outside the top 15, the other being race-winner Martin Truex Jr. While the  #6 team must win within the remaining races to fully secure their spot in the playoffs, Keselowski’s strong performance in Loudon has undoubtedly boosted his team’s confidence and built crucial momentum.

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