The Great American Race delivered, and we’ve got a LOT to talk about. In this episode of Below the Yellow Line, Sal and Buddy break down everything from Tyler Reddick’s dramatic Daytona 500 victory to the chaos, controversy, and split-second decisions that defined NASCAR’s biggest stage. From Riley Herbst’s last-lap move that sparked debate, to Connor Zilisch’s rookie mistake, to the return of manufacturer drama and charter talk, nothing is off limits. We also dive into: • Tyler Reddick winning the Daytona 500 and what it means for 23XI Racing and Michael Jordan • The controversial final lap and whether Riley Herbst made the right call • Connor Zilisch’s wreck and the reality of rookie mistakes at superspeedways • The return of RAM rumors and charter business moves shaping NASCAR’s future • Why this may have been the best Next Gen Daytona 500 yet • NASCAR officiating finally staying out of the spotlight—for the right reasons • Celebrity appearances, flyover moments, and the growing mainstream appeal of NASCAR • What fuel-saving strategies mean for the future of superspeedway racing Plus reactions to the Truck Series, Xfinity Series, and the biggest winners and losers from Speedweeks. If you love NASCAR analysis with honest takes, storytelling, and a little bit of chaos, this is the show for you.
February 16, 2026
