The 2025 EJP 175 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway delivered everything fans expect from a high-stakes NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series playoff race. Returning to the “Magic Mile” on Saturday, September 20, the event carried Round of 10 elimination weight, with only eight drivers advancing to the next playoff stage. The 175-lap, 185-mile contest tested precision, strategy, and nerves, particularly on NHMS’s flat corners and sweeping straightaways. Corey Heim’s dominant performance once again cemented his status as the driver to beat this season.
Key Highlights
- Corey Heim wins ninth race of 2025, tying Greg Biffle’s Truck Series single-season record.
- Heim led 124 of 175 laps and swept both Stage 1 and Stage 2.
- Chandler Smith finished second but failed to secure a playoff win.
- Layne Riggs, Gio Ruggiero, and Ty Majeski completed the top five.
- Several playoff drivers faced crashes, impacting their advancement prospects.
Corey Heim’s Dominance
Corey Heim entered New Hampshire with momentum, and he did not disappoint. Driving the No. 11 Safelite Toyota for TRICON Garage, Heim showcased near-perfect execution throughout the weekend. Leading 124 laps, Heim’s command of the track allowed him to control pace, preserve tires, and maintain composure under playoff pressure. His victory not only extended his record-tying ninth win of the season but also positioned him as a near-lock for the Truck Series Final Four. Fans couldn’t help but take notice.
“Heim’s unstoppable. At this rate he’ll almost be locked up in the Final Four on points with more wins lol.” – Fan Reaction
Heim’s consistency was crucial in a field filled with talent. His ability to navigate restarts, manage his equipment, and execute flawless pit strategy reflected the combination of skill and experience that defines a championship-caliber driver.
Playoff Pressure and Drama
The EJP 175’s elimination stakes amplified every on-track decision. With only eight drivers advancing, mistakes carried heavy consequences. Chandler Smith pressed hard for a win to keep his playoff hopes alive, ultimately finishing second by less than a second. Meanwhile, Layne Riggs, Gio Ruggiero, and Ty Majeski rounded out the top five, emphasizing the depth of competition in the series.
The race was not without chaos. Toni Breidinger, Matt Crafton, and Tanner Gray all suffered accidents that compromised their playoff campaigns, highlighting the unforgiving nature of NHMS. The track’s combination of flat corners and narrow grooves punished even minor miscalculations, pushing drivers to balance aggression with strategy.
“But can we please finally fire Michael Waltrip? He was absolutely full of shit with the incident between the 62 and the 16… Go away, ‘Mikey’.” – Fan Reaction
The high-stakes environment created a mix of admiration and frustration among the fanbase, who praised the thrilling moments but questioned race commentary and the playoff format itself.
Fan Reactions and Opinions
Social media and online forums were alive with commentary as the EJP 175 unfolded. Some fans marveled at Heim’s dominance while others criticized the playoff system.
“Heim getting passed in turn four on the last lap at Phoenix and finishing second in the standings is going to be the death of the playoff format.” – Fan Reaction
“Overall liked the race. Bit of a crashfest but… yeah, not too bad in the end.” – Fan Reaction
“Missed the race, but congratulations to Heim. Holy cow what a season.” – Fan Reaction
While some expressed a desire to see new winners, many acknowledged Heim’s consistency and record-breaking pace. The recurring debate over the playoff structure surfaced again, particularly regarding how strong performers can be eliminated despite their season-long excellence.
“Another reason why the playoff format sucks. 3rd best truck all year can’t even get out of the 1st round.” – Fan Reaction
This mix of admiration and criticism reflected the passionate, informed, and often vocal Truck Series fanbase.
Race Strategy and Track Challenges
New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s flat, one-mile layout demands more than raw speed. Precision braking, tire management, and smart positioning are critical. Heim’s triumph underscored the importance of balancing aggression with patience. Drivers who misjudged corners or made minor errors often paid the price, as evident in the incidents affecting Breidinger, Crafton, and Gray.
Pit strategy also played a pivotal role, particularly in late-stage restarts. Teams had to calculate fuel, tire wear, and track position while factoring in potential cautions. Drivers who executed well gained an advantage not only in finishing position but also in playoff security.
“Pretty decent race. Would have preferred to see someone other than Heim win but… I was glad to see it was Heim and Rajah stayed in the chase.” – Fan Reaction
The combination of technical demands and playoff pressure turned the EJP 175 into a dramatic, edge-of-your-seat contest that delivered both memorable racing and contentious debate.
News in Brief: Fans React to Corey Heim’s Dominance at NHMS EJP 175
The 2025 EJP 175 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway delivered high drama as Corey Heim dominated, leading 124 of 175 laps and claiming his ninth victory of the season, tying a record. Chandler Smith finished second, while Layne Riggs, Gio Ruggiero, and Ty Majeski rounded out the top five. Accidents involving Toni Breidinger, Matt Crafton, and Tanner Gray impacted playoff advancement. Fans praised Heim’s performance, debated the playoff format, and criticized commentary.
ALSO READ: EJP 175 Highlights: Corey Heim Ties Single-Season Win Record
