Austin Hill is the top pick to win the Austin Hill United Rentals 250, set to take place at Talladega Superspeedway this Saturday. The event plays a key role in the NASCAR Xfinity Series playoffs, as drivers race for crucial points and a spot in the Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway.
Playoff Points Set the Stakes for Talladega
As the playoff scenario takes center stage, series drivers know reaching 57 playoff points after Saturday’s event ensures entry into the championship round at Phoenix on November 1. Connor Zilisch, holding an 82-point advantage above the cut line, is already in a strong position, while Justin Allgaier is just 13 points away from qualifying. Jesse Love, despite needing 27 points, still has a chance to advance even without a win in the No. 2 Chevrolet. Four drivers will exit the playoffs after the upcoming Martinsville race scheduled for October 25.
Austin Hill Leads Betting Odds for United Rentals 250
Austin Hill, not in playoff contention, leads the odds at +370 according to FanDuel Sportsbook, signaling expectations for a strong performance in the Austin Hill United Rentals 250 at the 2.66-mile Talladega tri-oval. Connor Zilisch, who has amassed a series-high ten wins this season, and Jesse Love follow close behind in the odds at +550 each. Last weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Zilisch and Love were rivals on track, a battle likely to continue at Talladega.
Justin Allgaier Reaches Career Milestone
Justin Allgaier, fresh off a third-place finish at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, became the first Xfinity Series driver to reach 300 career top-10 results, pulling ahead of Kyle Busch, who has 267. Allgaier has odds of +1000 to secure a fourth win this year in the upcoming race.
“When side drafts become contact. 😳 pic.twitter.com/0XKnKrox5M
— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) October 12, 2025”
– NASCAR Xfinity, Official Series Account
What’s Next for the Championship Race
With the playoff picture set to narrow after Martinsville and drivers jockeying for the final Championship 4 spots, the Austin Hill United Rentals 250 at Talladega provides one of the last opportunities for contenders to secure their places. The performances at Talladega and Martinsville will determine which drivers move on to challenge for the title at Phoenix Raceway.
When side drafts become contact. 😳 pic.twitter.com/0XKnKrox5M
— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) October 12, 2025