The Mobil 1 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway opens the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs Round of 12, and Loudon's "Magic Mile" will immediately test playoff nerves.

The 1.058-mile oval is short, temperamental and defined by its shallow, variable 2- to 7-degree banking. Entry speed, chassis balance and long-run tire management separate contenders from also-rans here. A win instantly vaults a playoff driver into the Round of 8.

New Hampshire magnifies details. The surface chews tires and tests brakes over long green-flag stretches, and cautions often flip track position upside down. Stages run 70 laps, then 115, before a 116-lap dash to the checkered. Strategy and pit timing matter more here than raw horsepower. Clean entries and disciplined tire management usually outscore reckless charges.

BetMGM's board opens with Christopher Bell as the favorite at +325, followed by Denny Hamlin (+425), Chase Briscoe (+525) and Ryan Blaney (+625). Kyle Larson (+725) sits just behind, carrying a double-digit cushion above the cutline, which allows him to gamble less in early stages and focus on long-run pace. Bell's 2024 New Hampshire win, plus his participation in Goodyear's summer tire test, makes him the most data-driven pick. Hamlin, a past Loudon winner, always brings stage-point potential.

Expect a methodical race shaped by setup and patience rather than fireworks. Bell and Hamlin arrive as the sharpest favorites, but Larson's balance and Blaney's confidence could steal the spotlight if pit cycles break their way. Josh Berry and Carson Hocevar are the kind of mid-pack disruptors who can profit from late cautions. Stage points will be as important as finishing position; conserving track position and tire life may pay more than a desperate late charge.

Ticketing and streaming links in this article are provided by partners of The Athletic. Restrictions may apply. The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. Partners have no control over or input into the reporting or editing process and do not review stories before publication.

How to watch Mobil 1 301 at New Hampshire: TV, streaming for NASCAR Cup Series Round of 12