2026 Daytona 500 props, odds, bets, picks, predictions: NASCAR experts backing Ty Gibbs
CBS Sports
by
Daniel Kohn
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 Daytona 500, the opening race of the NASCAR Cup Series, is set to take place at Daytona International Speedway, featuring a star-studded field of drivers. Joey Logano enters the race as the favorite with +1000 odds, closely followed by Ryan Blaney at +1100 and Denny Hamlin at +1300. Other notable contenders include Chase Elliott, Austin Cindric, and William Byron, who is seeking a third consecutive victory. While these drivers capture attention, it’s Ty Gibbs who has caught the eye of expert handicappers Phil Bobbitt and Steve Greco.
Bobbitt and Greco, known for their predictive analytics and successful betting strategies, have identified Ty Gibbs as a strong contender for a top-3 finish, offering odds of +1200. Despite not being seen as a traditional superspeedway ace, Gibbs has demonstrated consistent performance with his fourth-place ranking in laps led last season and an average finish of 15.3. His ability to strategically lead laps without becoming a target is seen as a key strength, making him a quietly formidable option at Daytona.
The race also features several longshots, including drivers like Daniel Suarez at +4000 and Ross Chastain at +3300. These under-the-radar picks could prove lucrative for bettors willing to take risks on less obvious contenders. With past successes such as predicting Joey Logano’s victory in the 2025 All-Star Race and nailing William Byron’s win at Daytona in 2026, Bobbitt and Greco have established themselves as reliable sources for NASCAR betting insights.
For fans of motorsports, the Daytona 500 is always a highlight due to its unpredictable nature and high-stakes competition. This year’s race promises to deliver excitement, with both established stars and rising talents in contention. Whether it’s Logano’s repeat victory or Gibbs’ unexpected breakthrough, the event will likely be filled with dramatic moments and strategic plays that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The 2026 Daytona 500 not only kicks off the NASCAR season but also offers a unique opportunity for bettors to capitalize on expert analysis. With Bobbitt and Greco’s track record of success, their predictions provide valuable insights into which drivers might surprise the field. For anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the race or enhancing their betting strategy, following these handicappers could prove rewarding.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/14/2026