McDowell became the 14th different this year and the 13th to lock themselves into the playoffs.
After an early caution for Justin Haley, the race went completely green until the finish. There was plenty of contact, but never anything that required another restart.
Daniel Suarez started the race in first place, but by the end of Stage 1, McDowell was leading. Denny Hamlin extended his run and claimed victory in Stage 2.
Suarez’s chances of winning were diminished due to a gradual halt, ultimately resulting in Elliott and McDowell competing for victory.
Elliott made progress but couldn’t overtake McDowell in the last few laps. This victory marks McDowell’s first win since his thrilling triumph in the 2021 Daytona 500, where Elliott came in second place.
Suarez secured a third-place finish, currently trailing Bubba Wallace by 28 points and the last playoff position.
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