NASCAR Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Preview, Odds, and Start Time

Greg Kajewski
May 28
14 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Get ready for the NASCAR Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway! The race kicks off on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET, exclusively streaming on Amazon Prime Video. This 300-lap, 399-mile event is the 14th race of the Cup Series season and a critical opportunity for drivers to secure playoff spots.

Key Details:

Track: 1.33-mile D-shaped concrete oval with 14° banking.
Past Winners: Kyle Larson (2021), Chase Elliott (2022), Ross Chastain (2023), Joey Logano (2024).
Favorites: Kyle Larson (+475), William Byron, and Ross Chastain.
Unique Prize: A Gibson Les Paul guitar trophy, honoring Nashville’s music heritage.
Weather: 81% chance of rain, possibly impacting tire strategies and race dynamics.

The Cracker Barrel 400 is known for its unpredictability, with four different winners in four years. With playoff positions on the line, expect aggressive strategies and thrilling moments. Don’t miss it!

NASCAR Cup Preview: Nashville - Cracker Barrel 400

Event Background and History

The Cracker Barrel 400 marks the return of the Cup Series to Nashville after a long 37-year gap. The last time NASCAR's premier series raced in the city was back in 1984 at the historic Fairgrounds Speedway. Fast forward to 2021, and Nashville Superspeedway made its debut on the Cup Series schedule, creating a milestone moment for racing fans in Tennessee. Let’s take a closer look at the track’s history, iconic race moments, and its influence on the 2025 season.

Nashville Superspeedway Track Details

Nashville Superspeedway, a 1.33-mile concrete D-shaped oval, opened in 2001 in Gladeville, near Lebanon, Tennessee. The track initially hosted various racing series throughout the 2000s, but declining attendance led to NASCAR removing its dates after the 2011 season.

In 2020, NASCAR brought the track back into the spotlight, adding it to the Cup Series schedule for 2021 as a replacement for a date at Dover International Speedway. Speedway Motorsports now owns and operates the facility, upgrading it to meet Cup Series standards and solidifying its place as Tennessee’s top NASCAR destination.

The track’s concrete surface creates a unique set of challenges for drivers, requiring precision, excellent car control, and smart tire management to succeed.

Past Winners and Race Highlights

Since its return, the Cracker Barrel 400 has crowned four different winners in four years, highlighting the unpredictable nature of racing at Nashville Superspeedway. Each race has brought its own drama and standout performances:

Year	Winner	Team	Starting Position	Laps Led
2021	Kyle Larson	Hendrick Motorsports	5th	264
2022	Chase Elliott	Hendrick Motorsports	4th	-
2023	Ross Chastain	Trackhouse Racing	1st (Pole)	-
2024	Joey Logano	Team Penske	26th	9

Kyle Larson’s 2021 win stands out as a commanding performance. He led 264 of the 300 laps, finishing 4.335 seconds ahead of Ross Chastain in the track’s inaugural Cup race. His consistency at Nashville is unmatched, with a track-best average finish of 4.5.

The 2024 race, on the other hand, was all about drama. Joey Logano started deep in the field at 26th, led just 9 laps, and clinched victory in overtime. The race’s thrilling finish, extended due to NASCAR’s overtime rules, proved how quickly fortunes can shift at this track.

With two wins, Hendrick Motorsports has been the most successful team at Nashville, while Chevrolet leads manufacturers with three victories. This unpredictability and competitiveness are set to play a key role in the 2025 season as drivers vie for playoff points.

2025 Season Impact and Playoff Position

As Race 14 in the 36-race 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, the Cracker Barrel 400 is a pivotal event in the championship battle. With a massive $11,055,250 purse on the line, it carries significant weight for teams and drivers alike.

For drivers on the playoff bubble, this race could be a game-changer. A win at the Cracker Barrel 400 guarantees a spot in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, making it a high-stakes opportunity for teams still chasing a postseason berth. This pressure often leads to aggressive strategies, especially during the critical 95-lap Stage 2, as teams position themselves for the final 115-lap sprint to the finish.

The race’s 90-95-115 lap format provides multiple chances to earn stage points and fight for victory. Past races at Nashville have produced competitive action, with 7-12 different leaders and 14-21 lead changes in recent years.

From 2021 to 2024, Ally Financial served as the title sponsor, with the race known as the Ally 400. In 2025, Cracker Barrel takes over sponsorship, bringing a fresh identity to this summer night racing tradition. This change reflects NASCAR’s evolving marketing landscape while maintaining the event’s importance on the calendar.

The track’s concrete surface and challenging layout add another layer of complexity. Drivers desperate for a playoff-clinching win may take bigger risks, which could lead to the kind of dramatic moments that have already defined Nashville Superspeedway’s short but memorable Cup Series history.

Nashville Superspeedway Track Analysis

Nashville Superspeedway's distinct features play a critical role in determining who thrives in the Cracker Barrel 400. The track's layout, surface, and racing conditions heavily influence driver performance and team strategies.

Track Layout and Surface Details

Nashville Superspeedway stands out with its 1.33-mile D-shaped tri-oval design and a 14° banking, making it the largest all-concrete track in NASCAR. Unlike asphalt surfaces, concrete introduces unique challenges for drivers and teams alike.

The banking varies across the track: 14 degrees in the turns, 9 degrees on the frontstretch, and 6 degrees on the backstretch. This variation forces drivers to constantly adapt their racing lines and techniques as they transition through each section.

One of the most defining factors is the concrete surface, which significantly impacts tire performance and strategy. Goodyear’s tire expert Greg Stucker explains:

"Every time we race on a concrete track, like the one we have at Nashville this week, we design our tires to specifically lay rubber on the surface. Rubbering in the primary groove helps the racing by causing drivers to move around to find the grip provided by fresher concrete."

This means drivers must continuously search for grip in areas of fresh concrete, as these spots provide better traction compared to the rubbered-in racing line. The result? Multiple racing grooves and added strategic options during the 300-lap race.

The track's seating capacity, currently at 25,000, can expand to accommodate 38,000 fans with temporary grandstands. These features, combined with its technical demands, make Nashville a distinct challenge compared to other venues.

Track Comparisons and Performance Data

While Nashville Superspeedway shares similarities with Kansas Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, and Las Vegas Motor Speedway due to its tri-oval shape, its concrete surface creates a unique racing environment. Drivers and teams must adjust their setups and strategies to account for this difference.

Incident-adjusted speed data reveals a strong performance link between Nashville, Kansas, and Las Vegas. This is partly due to Goodyear using the same tire compound across these tracks, making results at Kansas and Las Vegas valuable predictors for Nashville success.

Dover International Speedway also provides a useful comparison because of its concrete surface. However, Dover’s one-mile length and steeper banking create a different racing dynamic. Drivers who excel at managing tire wear and finding grip at Dover often bring those skills to Nashville.

Recent performances highlight the importance of starting position and tire management. In 2023, Ross Chastain dominated by leading 99 laps from the pole, maintaining control through clean air and effective tire strategies. Similarly, Hendrick Motorsports has excelled at Nashville, with Kyle Larson winning in 2021 and Chase Elliott taking the victory in 2022. Their success underscores the importance of car setups that maximize grip and manage tire wear during long green flag runs.

Consistency has been a hallmark of top performers at Nashville. Kyle Larson, Ross Chastain, and Christopher Bell are the only drivers to secure top-10 finishes in all three races held at the track. Both Larson and Chastain have also achieved top-five finishes in every appearance. This consistency underscores the value of track-specific skills and team preparedness.

Ultimately, teams that excel at tire management and adapt to the evolving grip on the concrete surface gain a significant edge. Multi-groove racing opens up opportunities for creative strategies, rewarding drivers who can exploit unconventional lines. As the race approaches, these factors make certain teams and drivers particularly intriguing to watch - and bet on.

Top Drivers and Contenders

This race brings together Nashville’s seasoned performers and drivers on hot streaks. With only four years of Cup Series history at this track, recent results and handling of concrete surfaces play a huge role in shaping the list of contenders.

Race Favorites and Current Form

Points leader William Byron is riding strong momentum from the Coca-Cola 600. Despite leading a career-high 283 laps and winning the first three stages, Byron finished second after Ross Chastain’s dramatic last-lap pass. His 2025 season stats are impressive: 1 win, 6 top-5 finishes, and 8 top-10s in 13 races. Plus, his 108.7 driver rating tops the field, reflecting his dominance in speed, defense, and restarts.

Kyle Larson boasts the best Nashville track record, with an average finish of 4.5 at Nashville Superspeedway. He dominated the inaugural 2021 race, leading 264 laps on the concrete surface. However, his 37th-place finish at Charlotte marked his second DNF this season, dropping him to second in the standings. With a 102.5 driver rating, Larson is well-positioned to bounce back at Nashville.

Defending winner Ross Chastain comes into this race fresh off a thrilling Coca-Cola 600 victory. Starting from the back due to engine issues, Chastain fought his way through the field to overtake Byron on the final lap. His post-race emotions said it all:

"To drive on that final run in the 600 and pass two cars that had been better than me all night, wow... Holy cow! We just won the 600."

Chastain’s Nashville record includes three top-five finishes in four starts, tying him with Larson for the most at this track. His 148 laps led rank third all-time at Nashville, making him a key player as drivers battle for playoff spots.

Driver	Nashville Avg Finish	2025 Driver Rating	Recent Form
Kyle Larson	4.5	102.5	37th at Charlotte
William Byron	N/A	108.7	2nd at Charlotte (led 283 laps)
Ross Chastain	10.25	80.3	Won Charlotte starting from the rear

While these frontrunners command attention, a few sleeper picks could deliver surprising results.

Sleeper Picks and Long Shot Candidates

Christopher Bell stands out as a sleeper pick thanks to his remarkable consistency. Bell has finished in the top 10 in six of the last seven regular-season races, showcasing the steady performance needed to excel on Nashville’s challenging concrete surface.

Ryan Blaney is another strong contender to watch. His recent surge includes third-place finishes in two of the last three races and top-five results in four of the last six events. With Team Penske’s technical expertise backing him, Blaney could be poised for a standout performance.

Denny Hamlin brings intriguing stats to Nashville, even with a mixed 2025 season. He leads all drivers with 265 laps led at Nashville, just edging out Larson’s 264. His speed here suggests he’s overdue for a big result.

Joey Logano offers an interesting angle as the 2024 Nashville winner, where he started 26th and climbed to victory. His ability to adapt to changing track conditions makes him a driver to keep an eye on.

For those looking at long-shot bets, J.J. Yeley is a name to consider. Driving the Fanatics Sportsbook No. 44 Chevrolet, Yeley is listed at +800 to finish in the top 10, offering high-reward potential for bold bettors.

Lastly, Brad Keselowski has hinted at big expectations for this race. Reflecting on his Nashville preparation, he shared:

"Strong showing, we want more, and we feel like we have a shot to win Nashville. You just keep hammering through them and try to understand what you need to get better."

For BettorEdge users, these sleeper picks present exciting opportunities in flash markets, where you can take advantage of shifting race dynamics throughout the 300-lap event.

Betting Odds and Market Analysis

With limited Cup Series data at Nashville Superspeedway since 2021, oddsmakers face the challenge of weighing recent performance against a relatively short track history. This adds an unpredictable edge to the race, reflected in the dynamic odds shaping up for Nashville.

Current Odds and Value Bets

Kyle Larson leads the betting board at +450, backed by an impressive Nashville record that includes an average finish of 4.5 and 264 laps led across four starts. Other top contenders include:

Driver	Odds	Track Record	2025 Form
Kyle Larson	+450	4.5 avg finish, 264 laps led	3 wins
Denny Hamlin	+550	265 laps led	Strong recent performances
William Byron	+600	Limited Nashville history; 108.7 rating	Points leader
Christopher Bell	+600	Consistent performer	3 wins, top-10 in 6 of 7 races

William Byron, priced at +600, stands out as a solid pick given his strong current form, even with limited experience at this track.

For those considering mid-range bets, Ross Chastain at +1200 offers intriguing potential. Fresh off a win at Charlotte, Chastain boasts three top-five finishes in four Nashville starts and a 10.3 average finish. Similarly, Chase Elliott at +1400 has shown success at this venue, making him another driver to watch.

Looking for longshot bets? Alex Bowman at +2100 could be a sleeper pick with breakout potential. Meanwhile, Joey Logano at +2200 combines a 9.8 average finish at Nashville with a prior win at the track, making him a compelling option for value seekers.

BettorEdge Peer-to-Peer Betting Benefits

BettorEdge’s peer-to-peer platform offers a unique advantage by removing the high house edge, allowing bettors to earn more on their wagers. The no-vig marketplace lets you set your own odds or find better prices from other users, potentially securing more favorable bets on drivers like Kyle Larson or Ross Chastain.

The platform also provides tools to enhance your betting experience. You can follow top NASCAR bettors, track popular picks, and even copy successful bets. Leaderboards showcasing ROI and win percentages highlight community members with consistent success in NASCAR wagering. For the Cracker Barrel 400, you can join the race winner flash market.

BettorEdge also offers advanced analytics and bet tracking to refine your strategies. These tools provide detailed performance insights across various bet types and track surfaces, especially helpful for concrete tracks like Nashville. Free users can place no-vig marketplace orders up to $100 per month, while Premium members enjoy higher limits. With betting exchanges historically showing a 40% user profitability rate compared to just 2% with traditional sportsbooks, BettorEdge significantly boosts your chances of long-term success.

Race Schedule and Viewing Details

Here’s everything you need to know about the timing and logistics for the Cracker Barrel 400, along with some key environmental factors that could influence the race.

Start Time and TV Coverage

The Cracker Barrel 400 is set for Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. This year, the race will stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, marking it as one of five NASCAR Cup Series races moving to the platform in 2025. This shift comes as part of NASCAR’s new seven-year media deal with FOX Sports, NBC Sports, Amazon Prime Video, and TNT Sports.

To catch the action, you’ll need a Prime membership, but there’s good news - new customers can take advantage of a 30-day free trial. The weekend coverage doesn’t stop at the main event; both practice and qualifying sessions will also stream on Prime Video on Saturday, May 31. Keep in mind, weather conditions could play a pivotal role in shaping how the race unfolds.

"Racing under the lights at Nashville Superspeedway is truly special, and we're pleased to once again offer our fans this amazing experience." - Matt Greci, General Manager, Nashville Superspeedway

Weather Forecast and Track Conditions

Weather is shaping up to be a major factor for race day. There’s an 81% chance of rain and thunderstorms forecasted for Nashville Superspeedway, with temperatures expected to hover around 80°F and light winds from the north-northwest at 6 mph. Rain not only reduces tire grip but also creates visibility challenges due to water spray, forcing teams to rethink strategies. If the weather causes delays, the outlook for June 2 looks much clearer.

Teams will need to stay on top of short-term forecasts and adjust their pit strategies accordingly. Wet-weather tires, featuring deeper treads to manage water on the track, may come into play. Clear and effective radio communication will also be critical in navigating these conditions.

"When the track is hot, there is increased grip and improved handling. But tire wear does increase, so again, it's about trade-off." - Aaron Studwell, Ph.D., Chief Meteorologist, Founder and Lead Researcher for RaceWeather and President of ExoConsulting

Interestingly, cooler temperatures from potential storms could actually benefit engine performance. Denser air provides more oxygen, which can improve engine efficiency.

"Nashville is fun. I've been able to race there a bunch over the years with both the ARCA Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series. When I started in Cup, that was the track where we went and tested at a bunch. It's a fun race track and it's a challenge to get around." - Michael McDowell, Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet

Summary: Cracker Barrel 400 Betting Guide

This guide refines your betting strategy for the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway, a race that presents unique opportunities due to limited historical data and its unpredictable nature. With only four years of Cup Series racing at this track, traditional handicapping methods may not apply, making it a prime event for sharp bettors to uncover value.

Kyle Larson stands out as the favorite at +450, thanks to his stellar 4.5 average finish among drivers with multiple Nashville starts. His three top-five finishes and 264 laps led solidify his position, although his short odds may not appeal to casual bettors.

Weather could play a pivotal role, impacting tire grip and pit strategies. This unpredictability opens the door for longshot bets, such as Alex Bowman at +3000, particularly if wet conditions come into play.

Ross Chastain is another strong contender, especially after his recent Coca-Cola 600 victory. With three top-five finishes at Nashville, his setup seems well-suited for the 1.33-mile tri-oval, making him an intriguing mid-range pick.

For those exploring alternative betting formats, BettorEdge’s peer-to-peer setup allows users to set their own odds, offering better value through head-to-head matchups between drivers with comparable Nashville experience.

Prop bets are another avenue to consider. For instance, Joey Logano at +275 for a top-five finish or Chase Elliott at +200 are solid options. Logano boasts a 9.8 average finish among multi-start drivers, while Elliott has two top-five finishes in four Nashville starts, making both drivers reliable choices.

Success here hinges on focusing on track-specific performance. Nashville’s unique characteristics often defy conventional superspeedway trends, so paying close attention to qualifying sessions is key. With outright win odds hovering around +3600 (2.7%), the goal is to identify drivers whose actual chances exceed these odds. The combination of limited data, potential weather disruptions, and the track’s unpredictable nature creates an ideal environment for finding value in Sunday’s race.

FAQs

What makes Nashville Superspeedway stand out, and how does its concrete surface affect the race?

What Makes Nashville Superspeedway Stand Out?

Nashville Superspeedway is one of just three tracks in the NASCAR Cup Series with a concrete surface - the others being Dover and Bristol. Concrete offers some distinct advantages over asphalt, especially when it comes to durability. It holds up better over time, maintaining steady grip levels throughout a race. But there’s a trade-off: its sectional design can lead to bumps, making it trickier for drivers to handle their cars and execute clean passes.

Another standout feature of concrete is how it reacts to temperature changes. Unlike asphalt, which can get slick and unpredictable in the heat, concrete remains more stable. This consistency gives drivers a more reliable surface to race on, even during sweltering conditions. These unique traits combine to make Nashville Superspeedway a challenging and exciting venue for drivers and fans alike.

Why is the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville a key race for the NASCAR Cup Series playoff standings?

The Cracker Barrel 400 holds a key spot in the NASCAR Cup Series, especially when it comes to shaping the playoff picture. With just 16 coveted playoff spots up for grabs and drivers battling fiercely for every point, this race is a golden chance to gain ground in the standings. For competitors like William Byron and Kyle Larson, locked in a tight contest for top positions, every lap matters as the postseason edges closer.

What makes this race even more thrilling is its reputation for unexpected twists and unique challenges. Being a night race adds an extra layer of intensity, and its short history already boasts four different winners. This unpredictability makes the Cracker Barrel 400 a must-see event that could completely shake up the championship race.

How do weather changes, like rain, impact the Cracker Barrel 400 and what strategies do teams use to adapt?

Weather plays a big role in the Cracker Barrel 400, especially when rain comes into the picture. Teams and drivers must think on their feet to handle the changing track conditions. When the rain hits, teams typically swap out standard tires for rain tires, which are specially designed to provide better grip on the slick surface. Drivers, on the other hand, adjust their techniques - braking earlier and easing into acceleration - to stay in control on the 1.33-mile tri-oval.

Rain doesn't just affect driving; it shakes up the entire race strategy. Teams may have to make more pit stops to change tires, and they constantly track live weather updates to stay ahead of sudden changes. These quick shifts in weather can completely alter the race's trajectory, making split-second decisions and adaptability crucial to coming out on top.