Ross Chastain began his Round of 12 weekend away from the racetrack, attending an NFL game in Buffalo on Thursday night where the Bills faced the Miami Dolphins. This timely visit allowed the Trackhouse Racing driver to meet Bills quarterback Josh Allen, linking his passion for motorsports with his admiration for Allen’s football achievements.
Allen’s standout performance helped lead Buffalo to a 31-21 victory, as he threw three touchdown passes, including his 200th career touchdown pass. This milestone placed him among the sixth-fastest quarterbacks in NFL history to reach that mark, tying with notable players Russell Wilson, Kirk Cousins, and Dak Prescott. For Chastain, their connection goes beyond the field, rooted in shared agricultural backgrounds.
Chastain Finds Common Ground with Josh Allen Through Farming Roots
Both Chastain and Allen come from farming families, which has helped build a unique camaraderie between the driver and quarterback. Speaking during a NASCAR media event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Chastain reflected on his bond with Allen and their mutual appreciation for agricultural life. He noted how this connection has been highlighted through collaborations like the “Like a Farmer” podcast, where they share farming stories and celebrate their heritage.
“Oh, fun. So Josh Allen’s a farm kid. So I’ve been following him since he got in the league and we do some stuff with both, with Like a Farmer (podcast). So we kind of tell some Ag stories and it’s a good time to be a Bills fan. So I’m rooting for the farm kid though.”
– Ross Chastain, NASCAR Driver
After the game, Chastain posted a series of photos and videos on social media, including a playful moment where he tossed a watermelon from a stadium balcony—a nod to his race-day traditions and agricultural background. While the mood was lighthearted, Chastain faces a serious competitive challenge as he prepares for Sunday’s Mobil 1 301.
Facing the Challenge as the Lone Contender Outside NASCAR’s Elite Teams
Chastain is currently positioned 11th outside the playoff cut, heading into a crucial race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, a track known for its difficulty. He confronts a field dominated by the so-called “Big Three” NASCAR powerhouses—Hendrick Motorsports, Team Penske, and Joe Gibbs Racing. Nine of the 12 playoff drivers are affiliated with these organizations, and even the two drivers from 23XI Racing have technical alliances with Joe Gibbs Racing, leaving Chastain as the sole competitor unaffiliated with these dominant teams.
During a pre-race media session, Chastain candidly addressed the challenges that come with competing against these well-funded, established teams. He emphasized the magnitude of resources they possess and the perseverance required to contend with them consistently.
“The question will always be, how do you beat the Big Three? I think it’s just the nature of the sport and the quantity of people and the quantity of dollars. They’re cubic over there. So yeah, I feel like we can. Justin (Marks) wouldn’t do it, we wouldn’t all pour the effort and money into it if we didn’t think we could go compete. And like, we can. We did it at Charlotte. We did it at Kansas last year… but how do we continue to do that? We do it every now and then. That’s our big question.”
– Ross Chastain, NASCAR Driver
Chastain’s breakthrough run to the Championship 4 in 2022 exemplifies his ability to challenge the favorites, even as Trackhouse Racing continues to build its infrastructure and leadership. Sunday’s race at New Hampshire offers him an opportunity to leverage that underdog status and deliver a defining performance.
What Lies Ahead for Ross Chastain at New Hampshire
Rolling off from the eighth starting position, Chastain carries the hopes of his team and fans while tackling one of Chevrolet’s most demanding tracks. The intensity of the playoff battle adds urgency to his efforts, as each race now holds critical weight toward championship aspirations. His recent connection with Josh Allen and the Bills’ football success contributes to his motivation, intertwining the competitive spirit across both sports.
With the playoff field heavily stacked against independent contenders, Chastain’s journey highlights the resilience and passion necessary to compete at the highest level. His agricultural roots, personal bond with Allen, and determination to upset NASCAR’s dominant groups set the stage for a compelling weekend in Loudon.
Ross Chastain stopped by the Buffalo Bills game Thursday to pal around with fellow farmer (Bills QB) Josh Allen. Chastain said he had a good time …. pic.twitter.com/CPnwhbnsl4
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 21, 2025
https://twitter.com/RossChastain/status/1969085795991433361
