Chase Briscoe, driver of the No. 19 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry XSE for Joe Gibbs Racing, expressed a unique sense of confidence entering the current NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs during the Playoff Media Day on Wednesday. Unlike previous years where his focus was on simply competing, Briscoe stated that this year’s playoff run feels distinctly different because he believes his team has everything needed to contend for the championship.
Briscoe’s positive outlook reflects a shift in mindset from prior playoff appearances, with renewed belief that executing well during the races can lead to a victory and potentially the overall championship.
The Importance of Execution and Track Position in Achieving Victory
When asked about what it takes to convert strong track positions into wins, Briscoe acknowledged the challenges he has faced despite several near victories this season. He recalled multiple races where a win was within reach, particularly pointing out his second-place finishes, including one behind Shane Van Gisbergen where there was little chance of overtaking the leader without unforeseen circumstances.
Briscoe emphasized that continuing to put himself in competitive positions is key, and that sustained efforts to capitalize on opportunities will eventually result in more victories.
Unexpected Teammates: From Friends to Championship Contenders
Reflecting on his relationship with fellow Joe Gibbs Racing driver Christopher Bell, Briscoe shared a nostalgic moment about their early days. Neither expected to be teammates at the Cup level or to be flying together on the team owner’s plane to race in Mexico. Briscoe recalled that about a decade ago, they were simply friends playing video games and now find themselves competing side by side and vying for the championship.
When questioned about potential challenges racing against Bell if both advance to the final championship round, Briscoe downplayed any tension, pointing out that at Joe Gibbs Racing, competing for wins with teammates is a regular occurrence throughout the season.
Heightened Optimism Compared to Previous Playoffs
Briscoe admitted that this is the first time he truly feels he has a legitimate shot at winning a NASCAR Cup championship. In past playoff runs, while qualifying brought excitement, he privately knew the odds were slim. Now, despite not positioning himself as the outright favorite, Briscoe is confident that his team’s strength and resources present a credible opportunity to take the title.
He further credited his crew chief, James Small, for significantly boosting his confidence by providing consistently competitive cars and supporting his adjusted racing approach this season.
Shift in Mentality: Trusting the Team and Managing Risk
Briscoe explained how his mindset has evolved this season, particularly in terms of balancing risk and reward on the race track. Understanding that the car can consistently finish in the top 10 or 15 even on a difficult day allows him to avoid unnecessary risks that previously led to potential crashes or lost positions.
This acceptance is a critical mental adjustment that differentiates this playoff run from past experiences, with Briscoe learning that cautious driving combined with a strong car can deliver solid results without pushing dangerously for every position.
Addressing the Biggest Challenge: Consistency and Playoff Points
The driver identified execution as the major challenge for his team during the playoffs, emphasizing the need to avoid errors and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Although confident about reaching the Round of 8, Briscoe pointed out that starting the playoffs with a deficit in points means his team will likely need to win races to progress further.
Winning races early in the playoffs to accumulate more points is crucial for easing the path into the final rounds, but this goal depends entirely on flawless performance.
Learning from Veteran Teammates Like Denny Hamlin
Briscoe acknowledged the influence of experienced drivers such as teammate Denny Hamlin, who has mastered the art of mentally dissecting races over nearly two decades. While Denny can analyze race strategy with a broad perspective, Briscoe is still adapting to this approach, particularly in the context of managing risk versus reward during the current season.
The combination of an improved car and refined mental strategy allows Briscoe to be less aggressive and more calculated, a change he believes will pay dividends in the long term.
Elevated Stakes in the Playoffs Compared to Previous Teams
Transitioning from Stewart-Haas Racing to Joe Gibbs Racing has also brought a shift in expectations for Briscoe. He explained that while making the playoffs was an achievement in past seasons, now the goal is to advance beyond the first rounds, with failure to reach the Round of 8 considered a disappointment.
Briscoe recognizes that the speed has been there, making his team one of the faster ones consistently, but tying together all aspects of the race remains essential for success.
Resilience Following Early Playoff Setbacks
Recalling his earlier playoff experiences, Briscoe admitted that he often found himself near the bottom of the points standings after the first race but still managed to advance in the rounds. He stressed a never-give-up attitude, saying that adversity can be overcome with effort, reflecting his comfort competing under pressure when trailing.
Early Inspirations and the Reality of Becoming a Role Model
Briscoe shared that among drivers he was most excited to race against early in his career was Kyle Busch, recalling his first NASCAR races where running behind Busch felt like an awe-inspiring milestone. Despite his progress, Briscoe remains grounded, expressing surprise that younger drivers might view him as a role model.
He aspires to be a marquee figure that fans and fellow racers respect, emphasizing the importance of respectful conduct both on and off the track throughout his career.
Mastering Fuel Saving as a Key to Race Success
Briscoe credited his ability to save fuel as instrumental in his Pocono race victory, recounting advice from his father to slow down slightly to improve efficiency. He pointed out that utilizing proper fuel management, especially during cautions, allowed him to maintain position and prevent competitors from closing in.
His crew chief highlighted Briscoe’s exceptional skill at saving fuel under caution, a talent Briscoe himself was not fully aware of until it was pointed out by the team.
Fuel Management’s Importance in Modern NASCAR Races
According to Briscoe, conserving fuel is a crucial and often underestimated element of race strategy. He has developed a habit of saving fuel routinely, not only when necessary but as a precautionary measure to prepare for unpredictable race developments.
Early Influences in Fuel Efficiency Habits
The habit of fuel conservation began as a friendly competition with Noah Gragson during their time at Stewart-Haas Racing, where they would track who had the most engine shut-off time. This friendly rivalry turned into a consistent practice that has benefitted Briscoe across multiple seasons.
A New Dynamic at Darlington Compared to Earlier in the Season
Briscoe noted a clear transformation in his team’s performance and confidence since the spring race at Darlington, which was one of their worst outings. He compared the current race team to an entirely different organization marked by improved results, citing their increase in stage points from just 17 early in the season to over 100 recently.
Strengths and Areas to Improve Entering the Final Races
The team’s speed across all track types stands out as a primary strength, with Briscoe praising their consistent pace. However, he pointed to the critical need for flawless execution, including minimizing pit crew mistakes and on-track errors, as what will ultimately separate contenders in the playoff stretch.
Briscoe believes that if his team can maintain this focus over the last ten races, they will remain competitive throughout the playoffs.
Different Mindset for Southern 500 Defense
Discussing his mindset heading into the Southern 500, a race he won the previous year, Briscoe acknowledged a shift from a must-win situation to one where consistent points accumulation is vital. Being in the playoffs changes the approach; strong finishes without reckless moves can be as valuable as going for the win outright.
He also recognized the inherent challenges of the race, given changes in track conditions, tire characteristics, and car setups compared to the previous season.
The Fishing Passion of Teammate Denny Hamlin
On a lighter note, Briscoe commented on Denny Hamlin’s growing enthusiasm for fishing, explaining how Hamlin has become an avid angler with a dedicated boat and tracking apps. This shared hobby has become a regular pastime for them during race weekends, strengthening their off-track camaraderie.
