The Backstretch

Heather chats with some of the playoff drivers about the postseason. Heather and Chris talk about the playoffs, Kurt Busch's retirement and take a look ahead to Darlington. Kyle Larson stops by to talk about his season and the postseason. Heather breaks down the playoff field in her final thought.

Kurt Busch announces his retirement. Heather and Chris talk about William Byron's fifth win of the season, GMS Racing shutting down at the end of the season, and they have a preview of the regular season finale at Daytona. Erik Jones talks about trying to race his way into the playoffs and a tough year for Legacy Motor Club. Heather's final thought is on Daytona as the regular season finale.

Michael McDowell gets a big win on the road course at Indy. Heather talks about what that means for other smaller teams and how it's tied into the success of the NextGen car. Heather and Chris also talk about McDowell as well as what's next for Noah Gragson and a preview of the road course at Watkins Glen. Heather's final thought is on the future of the Bristol Spring Race.

Noah Gragson is suspended by his team and NASCAR for liking an insensitive Instagram post. Michael McDowell talks about battling to get in the postseason, if the NextGen is doing its job, and previews Michigan. Heather's final thought is on the four people who don't think Jimmie Johnson is a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

Denny ruffles feathers at Pocono. Our Crew Chief Chris Carrier talks about how critical it is to avoid mistakes this time of year and who is in the best position to grab the final playoff spots. Corey Lajoie talks about why tensions appear to be higher on intermediate tracks this season, what the schedule would look like if he designed it, and the keys to Richmond. Heather's final thought is on whether or not Bristol deserves two races.

Heather talks about the resurgent season for Martin Truex, Jr. Chris chimes in on Truex, what's wrong with Chase Elliott and a preview of Pocono. Kyle Larson is the guest talking about his season and being a little under the radar. Heather's final thought is on Justin Haley's move to Rick Ware Racing next season.

Heather talks about William Byron as a title contender. Chris also chimes in on William Byron's season and previews New Hampshire. Chris Buescher talks about RFK's resurgence. Heather's final thought is on Ross Chastain's new sponsor.

Heather talks about the emergence of Shane van Gisbergen in Chicago. Heather and Chris talk about the success of Chicago and preview Atlanta. Alex Bowman talks about battling back from his injury. Heather's final though is about the success of Chicago.

It's finally race weekend in Chicago. Heather and Chris talk about all the build-up to the race as well as a quick recap of last weekend's race at Nashville. Our guest Dale Earnhardt, Jr from NASCAR on NBC talks about what this weekend means for the sport. Heather's final thought is about not liking it before you try it.

On this week's special edition of the Backstretch Heather take a look at the leadup to the Street Race in Chicago and what we can expect next week.