"Byron Takes the Lead in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs"

William Byron will start the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs as the No. 1 seed, with Martin Truex Jr. in second place. Bubba Wallace secured the final playoff spot, becoming the only first-time driver in the postseason. There are six former Cup Series champions in the playoffs, including Kyle Busch and Joey Logano. Ford has six championship-eligible drivers, while Chevrolet and Toyota each have five. The first race of the postseason will be held at Darlington Raceway.