The Backstretch

The Backstretch Season 5, Episode 19: Carson Hocevar

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Denny Hamlin wins at Nashville and moves one step closer to NASCAR history.

In Season 5, Episode 19 of The Backstretch Podcast, Heather Williams and crew chief Chris Carrier break down Hamlin's 62nd career Cup Series victory, putting him just one win behind Kyle Busch for ninth on NASCAR's all-time wins list. At 45 years old, Hamlin continues to perform at an elite level — but just how impressive is this run?

🏁 What Matters / What Doesn't

  • The Nashville race lasted more than four hours, prompting Denny Hamlin to suggest shortening the event to 300 miles. Does race length matter?
  • Corey Heim is officially announced as the driver of the No. 35 car next season, replacing Riley Herbst. Another young driver is making the jump to a full-time Cup ride — how important is that for the sport?

    • 🎤 Turn 5 – Five Minutes with Carson Hocevar

    Michigan native Carson Hocevar joins the show to discuss his season, racing in front of a home-state crowd, and the challenges of competing at NASCAR's highest level.

    📻 Say What? (Radio Chatter)

    • The No. 6 team reacts after an incident involving Austin Dillon and the No. 3 car
    • NASCAR declines to penalize Dillon, citing throttle data discussed on the Hauler Talk podcast
    • More frustration surfaces from the No. 12 team late in the race — was it directed at Shane van Gisbergen or simply the product of hard racing at Nashville?

      • 🛠 Pit Notes

      Chris Carrier previews Michigan International Speedway and explains the keys to winning at one of NASCAR's fastest intermediate tracks, where momentum, clean air, and fuel strategy often decide the race.

      Fast takes. Real insight. Inside the garage.

      Subscribe for weekly NASCAR breakdowns, driver interviews, and pit box perspective you won't hear anywhere else.

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      The BackstretchBy Heather Williams