NASCAR is finally back after a very long off week with no racing. The ARCA Menards Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and Cup Series take on Iowa Speedway for some short track action.
Here are the three drivers I’m backing to reach Victory Lane this weekend.
ARCA Menards Series – JR&CO 150
Pick: Carson Brown
Carson Brown is my choice to win the JR&CO 150. He’s built a strong reputation as one of the better short-track racers in the field, and this weekend he’ll have the equipment to contend for the victory.
The biggest challenge will be getting past Max Reaves, who has quickly become one of the toughest short-track racers to beat.
Still, I think Brown has the talent and the race craft to put himself in position when it matters most. If he keeps himself near the front throughout the race, I believe he’ll have what it takes to score the win.
NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series – Hy-Vee PERKS 250
Pick: Jesse Love
Jesse Love is due.
He’s been knocking on the door for his first win of the season, and Iowa feels like the perfect place for that breakthrough. Love was one of the fastest drivers at this track last year, finishing second after showing race-winning speed throughout the weekend.
Iowa has always rewarded drivers who can maintain speed over long green-flag runs, and Love has consistently shown that ability. With Richard Childress Racing bringing competitive cars each week, I think everything lines up for him to finally break through.
NASCAR Cup Series – Iowa Corn 350
Pick: Ryan Blaney
Nobody has been better at Iowa than Blaney since the Cup Series arrived. He owns an outstanding 4.00 average finish, has one victory, and has finished inside the top 10 in both of his Cup starts at the track. He also won the inaugural Iowa Corn 350 in 2024, proving he knows exactly what it takes to get around this unique short track.
Team Penske has consistently unloaded fast cars at Iowa, and Blaney’s smooth driving style fits this track perfectly. If he qualifies near the front and avoids trouble early, I expect him to be battling for the lead when the checkered flag falls.
