Corey Heim continues to dominate the NASCAR Truck Series, securing his sixth pole of the season at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. As the Truck Series playoffs head into the Round of 8, every starting position matters, and Heim’s front-row advantage sets the stage for another high-stakes race. Meanwhile, Chandler Smith, sitting P2, faces a must-win scenario to advance, while Layne Riggs, starting P4, hopes to challenge Heim and assert his own playoff contention. The field is set for intense action at the Magic Mile.
Key Highlights
- Corey Heim earns his sixth pole of the 2025 season at Loudon.
- Chandler Smith starts P2 and must win to advance in the playoffs.
- Layne Riggs begins the race in P4, aiming to challenge Heim.
- The Truck Series Playoffs Round of 8 kicks off at New Hampshire.
- Short-track experience and practice time could favor Heim in race conditions.
Corey Heim Sets the Standard in Qualifying
Corey Heim’s performance in practice and qualifying demonstrated why he is the truck to beat at Loudon. He posted the fastest laps and was the only driver under 29 seconds, giving him a clear edge on the one-mile flat oval.
With limited time for other drivers to adapt, Heim’s familiarity with the track positions him as the favorite to control the race from the front. His smooth driving style and experience in short-track conditions could make it difficult for rivals to mount a serious challenge.
Playoff Pressure on Smith and Riggs
Chandler Smith faces a critical race as a playoff contender. Starting P2, he has no margin for error if he hopes to advance in the Round of 8.
Layne Riggs, starting P4, could disrupt the playoff picture. The two drivers have split the last seven races between them, adding extra tension to their battle at New Hampshire. A strong run from Riggs could potentially eliminate Smith, reshaping the playoff landscape and intensifying competition behind Heim.
Heim Time came early today! @CoreyHeim_ wins the Kennametal Pole Award at @NHMS. pic.twitter.com/jslgvZziKq
— NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Trucks (@NASCAR_Trucks) September 19, 2025
The Field and Track Challenges
Other playoff drivers are scattered throughout the field, creating opportunities for movement and potential chaos. New Hampshire’s Magic Mile is a flat, one-mile oval that can expose weaknesses in short-track racing. While Heim has shown strength on similar tracks, his rivals may try to capitalize on any mistakes, as seen in past events like Phoenix. With only 50 minutes of practice, the limited track time may favor Heim’s preparation while others scramble to find speed and consistency before the green flag.
Race Strategy and Expectations
Heim’s dominance in qualifying does not mean a guaranteed victory. Competitors like Smith and Riggs will look to challenge him, forcing strategic moves and clean pit work to gain positions. Track position will be key, and staying out of trouble while navigating the tight racing on the Magic Mile could define the outcome.
Drivers who can balance aggression with patience may find themselves contending late in the race, but Heim’s pole-winning pace suggests he will be a consistent threat at the front throughout the event.
News in Brief: Corey Heim Dominates Qualifying as Round of 8 Begins in Trucks
Corey Heim claimed the pole at New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the NASCAR Truck Series, marking his sixth pole of 2025. Chandler Smith starts P2 in a must-win situation to advance in the playoffs, while Layne Riggs begins P4 aiming to challenge Heim. The field includes other playoff drivers scattered throughout, with strategy, track position, and short-track skills expected to play major roles. Heim’s strong practice pace gives him a key advantage.
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