A competitive duel took place at Southern National on Thursday during a double feature event, where Kaden Honeycutt and Matt Cox emerged as the dominant drivers following an early lap one incident that involved multiple racers. Honeycutt secured victory in the opening 30-lap race, leading every lap, while Cox capitalized on a favorable starting position to claim the second 30-lap feature.
Honeycutt’s Commanding Lead in the Opening Race
Kaden Honeycutt controlled the first race by maintaining the lead from start to finish, holding off challenges from Matt Cox and Chase Burgeson. Despite a chaotic start that removed several competitors from contention, Honeycutt’s performance was steady and decisive.
Kaden Honeycutt took the win over Matt Cox and Chase Burgeson in the first after of a Late Model Stock double feature at Southern National. pic.twitter.com/VjreAkLQ0J
Cox’s Strategic Victory in the Second Feature
Starting from the pole after a redraw, Matt Cox leveraged his position to dominate the second race, overcoming Honeycutt who started on the outside of the second row. Cox was able to build an early lead, manage his tires, and maintain control throughout the 30 laps to secure the win.
We had a good car there and we were able to stretch the lead out early,
Cox said after his victory.
It took Kaden a couple laps to get to second. We were able to build a lead there and ride and manage a little bit and save some tire in case we did get a late race caution and bunch things back up. All in all, it was a good night for us. We got a little better since yesterday.
Honeycutt Reflects on His Speed Week Performance
Although Honeycutt did not win the second race, he expressed satisfaction with his overall results, including podium finishes in all three races he entered during Speed Week 2026 at Southern National. He noted the changes made by his team and his need for more laps to improve.
I just needed more laps in that second twin honestly,
Honeycutt remarked.
Just a great job by this Tom Usry Racing group. Made a change in that second race. I don’t know if it was better or not. It seemed like I was catching Matt. I honestly needed twin-50s tonight. But, yeah, really good.
Championship Implications and Remaining Competition
With Honeycutt withdrawing from the rest of Speed Week, Matt Cox is now in a strong position to secure the championship title, following in the footsteps of Doug Barnes, Jr., who won last year. Meanwhile, Chase Burgeson, Matt McCall, and Ryan Wilson completed the top five in the first race, with Wilson moving up to third in the second event as Burgeson and McCall shifted slightly in their final positions.
Neither Honeycutt nor McCall is expected to return for the final days of competition, and Cox’s teammate Sam Yarbrough also will not participate further after being involved in the first-lap incident. These absences could have significant effects on the championship battle as the week progresses.
Kaden Honeycutt took the win over Matt Cox and Chase Burgeson in the first after of a Late Model Stock double feature at Southern National. pic.twitter.com/VjreAkLQ0J
— Short Track Scene (@ST_Scene) March 6, 2026
Matt Cox talks about his win at SNMP Speed Week pic.twitter.com/aG9G2qrjHW
— Short Track Scene (@ST_Scene) March 6, 2026
