Chase Elliott has shared insights into his playoff approach, emphasizing the crucial role of momentum and points as he enters the next stage of NASCAR’s postseason. After his Kansas victory, Elliott outlined how the Chase Elliott playoff mindset is about maximizing every opportunity, especially as the series heads to the challenging Charlotte ROVAL.
Elliott Seeks Points Edge for Playoff Advantage
Before competing at the Charlotte ROVAL, Elliott was candid about his priorities. Securing a place in the Round of 8 was only part of the plan; he stressed that accumulating additional points at each race remains vital to reaching Phoenix, where championship hopes are decided. The Charlotte ROVAL, with its demanding mix of road course and oval elements, presents both a risk and opportunity for drivers aiming to advance in the tightly contested playoff format.
Elliott discussed how capitalizing on his Kansas momentum could offer an edge by securing extra points, potentially shifting his starting spot in the next round and amplifying his team’s postseason competitiveness. Five points, he noted, might be the difference between contention and elimination, reflecting the razor-thin margins defining this phase of the season.
“My mind is really all about (the) Charlotte (ROVAL) right now because five more points would be a really big deal for us starting the next round and we will be in a position where you’re going to have to fight for wins over the next round too.”
Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Through his remarks, Elliott described the playoff grind as one requiring relentless determination, with each week presenting new hurdles. He underscored the importance of treating every upcoming race—starting with Charlotte—as a dress rehearsal for the final rounds, building a mindset of resilience and readiness within his team to excel when it matters most.
“So, I think it’s a great opportunity to race this weekend like we’re going to have to race the next three weeks following that and get our team in a position where that’s the norm because if you want to get to Phoenix, that’s got to be the mindset there anyway. So, you might as well embrace it and enjoy it.”
Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Track Record and Playoff Performance
Elliott’s approach is rooted in a season filled with significant accomplishments. Over the course of 32 starts, he has achieved two victories, ten top-five finishes, and sixteen races inside the top ten. His most recent win in Kansas locked up his spot in the Round of 8, while his season highlights have included reaching a milestone 20th career victory with a dramatic last-lap move at Atlanta.
Statistically, Elliott’s campaign has been robust. He has paced the field for 592 laps and amassed 3,104 points, placing him fifth overall in the Cup Series standings. Averaging a finish just outside the top ten displays consistency and front-running speed, both critical attributes as eliminations approach and the competition intensifies.
Reacting to On-Track Drama at Kansas
The conclusion of the Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas showcased hallmark playoff intensity, as fellow contenders Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace clashed while battling for an automatic playoff spot. Their overtime encounter saw Hamlin force Wallace into the barrier, creating a dramatic moment that unfolded right in front of Elliott, who responded by focusing strictly on his own path in the closing moments.
Elliott explained his thinking during the decisive seconds:
“Honestly, probably not fair for me to comment. Like, I was coming down the back, and, yes, I was right behind them. Once I saw they were fixing to ship it in there, my eyes went where I needed to go, so I quit watching them.
Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
“I just knew I had to paint the white line really precise; it’s a pretty small window … so my eyes went there, and I have no idea what happened with them,” he further added.
Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
This quick adjustment allowed Elliott to take advantage of the confusion, seizing the opportunity to secure his victory. He credited his team at Hendrick Motorsports for exceptional strategy, noting that he was the only driver among the top five to finish with four new tires after a bold final pit stop. This tire management decision proved pivotal in maintaining grip and control during the race’s hectic finale.
What Elliott’s Mindset Means for the Championship Chase
Chase Elliott’s playoff philosophy spotlights a blend of adaptability and unwavering ambition, cornerstone qualities in the NASCAR Cup Series’ high-pressure knockout format. By focusing on immediate goals like point collection and mastering each distinct track, Elliott and his Hendrick Motorsports crew aim to keep their path to Phoenix in their own hands.
As the playoff rounds continue and the spotlight intensifies, Elliott’s approach—grounded in preparation, team unity, and seizing every small advantage—could serve as a model for aspiring drivers and teams seeking success in the season’s most demanding stretch. The coming weeks promise more high drama, strategic gambles, and, for Elliott, the pursuit of another NASCAR championship built on the foundation of his distinctive playoff mindset.
“I have no idea what happened with them, I’m sorry” @chaseelliott on his thoughts about what he saw as the bottom lane opened up after the contact between Hamlin and Wallace. pic.twitter.com/PNpOQYXf5v
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) September 29, 2025
