Best Bets: NHRA Northwest Nationals Pre-Event Odds Analysis

Best Bets and Picks for NHRA Northwest Nationals 2024

Top Fuel

Top Picks and Bets – Top Fuel

Doug Kalitta (+591 event winner, +399 quickest ET) enters the Northwest Nationals as the points leader and is coming off a runner-up finish in Norwalk. Kalitta’s Mac Tools dragster has been the class of the field in 2024, securing three wins and advancing to five final rounds in the first ten events. His +399 odds for quickest ET are the best in the class, suggesting oddsmakers expect him to be a major player in qualifying. With two career victories at Pacific Raceways and the momentum of four straight final round appearances, Kalitta is a strong pick to add to his points lead this weekend.

Justin Ashley (+652 event winner, +1180 quickest ET) holds second place in the standings, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout the season. The 2020 Rookie of the Year has notched two victories in 2024 and consistently advances deep into elimination rounds. Ashley’s Scag Power Equipment Top Fuel dragster has been particularly strong off the starting line, providing an edge in close races. While his +1180 odds for quickest ET suggest he may not top the qualifying sheets, Ashley’s race day prowess makes him a strong contender for the event win.

Steve Torrence (+665 event winner, +563 quickest ET), the four-time world champion, is still seeking his first victory of 2024. However, the Capco Racing driver has shown signs of returning to his dominant form, including a No. 1 qualifier in Phoenix and a #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge win in Epping. Torrence has three career victories at Pacific Raceways, tied for the most among active drivers. His +563 odds for quickest ET indicate he could be a factor in the hunt for the pole position, making him a solid pick for both qualifying and race day success.

Outsider Picks – Top Fuel

Brittany Force (+700 event winner, +745 quickest ET), the two-time world champion, has had a surprisingly quiet start to her 2024 campaign. However, the Monster Energy Top Fuel dragster is always a threat to dominate on any given weekend. Force set both ends of the track record at Pacific Raceways in 2022 with a 3.753 ET and 338.00 mph pass. Her +745 odds for quickest ET suggest she could be a smart bet for qualifying performance, and her ability to get hot quickly makes her a dangerous dark horse pick for the event win.

Shawn Langdon (+724 event winner, +752 quickest ET) currently sits third in points, showcasing consistency throughout the season. With two victories in 2024, the DHL dragster driver has demonstrated an ability to adapt to varying track conditions. Langdon’s +752 odds for quickest ET indicate he could be a factor in qualifying, potentially offering value for bettors looking at that market. His experience and steady performances make him a solid outsider pick for those seeking a balance of risk and reward.

Antron Brown (+751 event winner, +906 quickest ET), the three-time world champion, is coming off an impressive victory in Norwalk that moved him to fourth in the standings. Brown’s Matco Tools dragster has shown flashes of its championship-caliber form throughout the season, and the team seems to be hitting its stride at the right time. While his odds are longer than some of his competitors, Brown’s experience, momentum, and ability to perform in clutch situations make him a dangerous dark horse pick for the Northwest Nationals.

Expert Pick – Top Fuel

Doug Kalitta is our choice to continue his impressive run and secure another victory at the Northwest Nationals. The Mac Tools team’s consistency in both qualifying and eliminations, combined with Kalitta’s experience and recent performances, give him a slight edge in a highly competitive Top Fuel field.

Head-to-Head Picks – Top Fuel

Funny Car

Top Picks and Bets – Funny Car

Austin Prock (+408 event winner, +450 quickest ET) enters the Northwest Nationals as the Funny Car points leader and favorite to take home the Wally. The second-generation driver has been a model of consistency in his rookie Funny Car season, racking up two wins and five final round appearances in the first ten events. Prock’s John Force Racing Chevrolet Camaro has shown remarkable adaptability to varying track conditions, a crucial factor at the often tricky Pacific Raceways surface. His +450 odds for quickest ET reflect the raw speed his team has found, making him a strong contender in both qualifying and eliminations.

Matt Hagan (+467 event winner, +343 quickest ET) sits third in points and is hungry to close the gap on Prock. The three-time world champion has one win on the season but has consistently been one of the quickest cars in the field. Hagan’s TSR Dodge Charger set both ends of the track record at Norwalk with a blistering 3.791 ET and 337.66 mph speed in qualifying. His +343 odds for quickest ET are the best in the class, suggesting oddsmakers expect him to be a major factor in the hunt for the pole position.

Bob Tasca III (+615 event winner, +529 quickest ET) enters the Northwest Nationals riding a wave of momentum after his victory in Norwalk. The Ford Mustang driver has surged to second in the points standings on the strength of two wins this season. Tasca’s recent success can be attributed to the consistency his team has found, as evidenced by his 14 out of 15 runs going down the track since Bristol. While his odds are longer than Prock and Hagan, Tasca’s recent form makes him a dangerous threat to make it back-to-back victories.

Outsider Picks – Funny Car

Ron Capps (+636 event winner, +960 quickest ET) broke out of his season-long slump with a runner-up finish in Norwalk. The three-time world champion and defending Funny Car title holder has historically performed well at Pacific Raceways, with three career victories at the track. While Capps’ NAPA Auto Parts Toyota has struggled with consistency this season, his team showed signs of turning the corner in Norwalk. If they can build on that momentum, Capps could be a smart bet at these longer odds.

J.R. Todd (+774 event winner, +738 quickest ET) has had an up-and-down season but remains a threat with his DHL Toyota GR Supra. Currently fifth in points, Todd has shown flashes of his championship-caliber form, including a runner-up finish in Bristol. His +738 odds for quickest ET suggest he could be a factor in qualifying, potentially providing value for bettors looking at that market. Todd’s experience and ability to perform under pressure make him an intriguing dark horse pick, especially if his team can dial in the right setup for Pacific Raceways’ often challenging conditions.

Daniel Wilkerson (+819 event winner, +1513 quickest ET) offers the longest odds of our Funny Car picks, but the second-generation racer has shown promise in his first full-time NHRA season. Currently seventh in points, Wilkerson has been a model of consistency, regularly advancing to the later rounds of elimination. While his +1513 odds for quickest ET suggest he’s a long shot in qualifying, Wilkerson’s steady performance on race day could make him an appealing underdog pick for bettors looking for a potential big payout.

Expert Pick – Funny Car

Matt Hagan is our choice to break through for his second win of the season at the Northwest Nationals. His team has shown they have the horsepower to compete for poles and race wins, and Hagan’s past success at Pacific Raceways gives him an edge. Look for the TSR Dodge to be in the hunt all weekend long.

Head-to-Head Picks – Funny Car

Pro Stock Car

Top Picks and Bets – Pro Stock Car

Greg Anderson (+455 event winner, +265 quickest ET) enters the Northwest Nationals second in points, looking to close the gap on leader Dallas Glenn. The five-time world champion’s consistency in 2024 is evident in his three final round appearances and two victories. Anderson’s KB Titan Racing Chevrolet Camaro has been particularly impressive in qualifying, reflected in his class-leading +265 odds for quickest ET. With four career victories at Pacific Raceways, including last year’s event, Anderson’s experience and success at this track make him a formidable contender.

Erica Enders (+475 event winner, +325 quickest ET), the reigning world champion, is still in search of her first victory of 2024. Despite not winning since the season opener, Enders remains a constant threat in her Elite Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro. Her two career victories at Pacific Raceways and +325 odds for quickest ET suggest oddsmakers expect her to be in the mix for the pole position. As the Countdown to the Championship approaches, Enders and her team will be highly motivated to find the winner’s circle and build momentum for their title defense.

Points leader Dallas Glenn (+520 event winner, +402 quickest ET) has been the standout performer in Pro Stock this season, amassing three wins and five runner-up finishes in the first ten events. The third-year pro’s consistency and poise have helped him build an 89-point lead over Anderson. While Glenn is yet to claim victory at Pacific Raceways, his performance throughout the season indicates he’ll be a major factor this weekend. His slightly longer odds compared to Anderson and Enders could provide value for bettors confident in his ability to maintain his stellar form.

Outsider Picks – Pro Stock Car

Aaron Stanfield (+851 event winner, +1513 quickest ET) comes into the Northwest Nationals riding the momentum of back-to-back victories in Virginia and Norwalk. Now fourth in points, Stanfield has demonstrated an ability to get hot at the right time. While his +1513 odds for quickest ET suggest he may face challenges in qualifying, his recent race day performances make him an intriguing dark horse pick. Stanfield’s confidence will be high after his recent success, potentially setting the stage for a third consecutive victory.

Jeg Coughlin Jr. (+973 event winner, +1472 quickest ET) has already tasted victory in his return from retirement, winning in Las Vegas and Bristol earlier this year. The five-time world champion’s wealth of experience includes three career victories at Pacific Raceways. Coughlin’s longer odds belie his ability to rise to the occasion in big moments. His past success at this venue, combined with his championship pedigree, make him a tempting upset pick for bettors looking for a potential big payout.

Troy Coughlin Jr. (+1120 event winner, +1010 quickest ET) has shown flashes of brilliance in 2024, including a victory in Epping. Currently sixth in points, Coughlin has consistently performed well in qualifying. His +1010 odds for quickest ET suggest he could be a factor in securing a top qualifying position. While he’s yet to claim victory at Pacific Raceways, Coughlin’s ability to go rounds on race day makes him an outsider worth watching for bettors seeking value.

Expert Pick – Pro Stock Car

Greg Anderson gets the nod as our Expert Pick for Pro Stock at the Northwest Nationals. His combination of current form, past success at the track, and stellar qualifying performances make him the most likely candidate to secure the Wally this weekend.

Head-to-Head Picks – Pro Stock Car

Pro Stock Motorcycle

Top Picks and Bets – Pro Stock Motorcycle

Gaige Herrera (-377 event winner, -405 quickest ET) enters the Northwest Nationals amid one of the most dominant runs in NHRA history. The defending world champion has won all six events in 2024, extending his winning streak to 11 consecutive events and 44 round wins. Herrera’s Vance & Hines Suzuki has been in a class of its own, reflected in his negative odds for both the event win and quickest ET. While these odds offer little value for bettors, Herrera’s performances make him the clear favorite to continue his historic streak at Pacific Raceways.

Matt Smith (+968 event winner, +1106 quickest ET), the six-time world champion, is still in search of his first 2024 victory. Despite the winless streak, Smith has shown flashes of the form that has made him one of the most successful riders in Pro Stock Motorcycle history. With one career victory at Pacific Raceways in 2015, Smith’s experience could prove valuable. His +1106 odds for quickest ET suggest he could be Herrera’s closest challenger in qualifying, making him a solid pick for those looking to bet against Herrera’s dominance.

Richard Gadson (+1787 event winner, +2079 quickest ET) has shown flashes of potential in the 2024 season aboard his Vance & Hines Suzuki. While currently outside the top 10 in points, Gadson has demonstrated the ability to put together competitive runs when conditions are right. His long odds reflect his current standing, but access to the same equipment as the dominant Herrera means Gadson could surprise if he finds consistency at the Northwest Nationals. For bettors, Gadson represents a high-risk, high-reward option in both the event winner and quickest ET markets.

Outsider Picks – Pro Stock Motorcycle

Chase Van Sant (+2074 event winner, +1255 quickest ET) has impressed in his rookie Pro Stock Motorcycle season, currently sitting fifth in points. The White Alligator Racing Suzuki rider has shown potential, particularly in qualifying where his +1255 odds for quickest ET suggest he could be a factor. While Van Sant is still seeking his first final round appearance, his consistent improvement throughout the season makes him an intriguing long shot pick for bettors looking for value.

Angie Smith (+2168 event winner, +2173 quickest ET) is yet to secure a victory in 2024 but remains a threat aboard her Denso Buell. The two-time national event winner has shown flashes of speed this season, and her experience could prove valuable in the often-challenging conditions at Pacific Raceways. Smith’s long odds could provide significant value for bettors looking for a potential upset pick, especially considering her ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

John Hall (+2258 event winner, +3421 quickest ET) offers the longest odds of our Pro Stock Motorcycle picks but has shown consistency throughout the 2024 season. Currently third in points, Hall has proven he can go rounds on race day. While his Suzuki hasn’t displayed the same speed as the frontrunners, Hall’s experience and steady performances make him an intriguing long shot for bettors seeking a big payday, particularly in round-by-round betting.

Expert Pick – Pro Stock Motorcycle

Despite the temptation to go against the grain, it’s impossible to pick against Gaige Herrera given his historic run of dominance. Expect the Vance & Hines Suzuki to continue its winning ways at the Northwest Nationals, potentially setting new records in the process.

Head-to-Head Picks – Pro Stock Motorcycle

Championship Futures Update

Top Fuel

Justin Ashley’s slight edge in championship odds reflects his consistency throughout the season. Doug Kalitta’s recent surge has him hot on Ashley’s heels, while Steve Torrence’s experience keeps him in the mix despite a winless 2024. Shawn Langdon’s steady performance has him as a dark horse, and Antron Brown’s recent victory in Norwalk could be the catalyst for a late-season push. The tight odds suggest a thrilling championship battle ahead.

Funny Car

Austin Prock’s rookie season continues to impress, with his championship odds now favoring him to claim the title. Matt Hagan’s experience and recent performances keep him within striking distance. Ron Capps, despite a slow start, remains a threat based on his championship pedigree. Bob Tasca III’s recent surge and JR Todd’s consistency round out a competitive top five, indicating that the Funny Car title race is far from settled.

Pro Stock

The Pro Stock championship battle appears to be a three-way race between Greg Anderson, Dallas Glenn, and Erica Enders. Anderson’s slight edge likely stems from his recent consistency and qualifying performances. Glenn’s breakout season keeps him in close contention, while Enders’ championship experience makes her a constant threat despite a winless 2024. Aaron Stanfield and Jeg Coughlin Jr. remain in the hunt, capable of making late-season pushes.

Pro Stock Moto

Gaige Herrera’s dominance is reflected in his overwhelming favorite status for the championship. His historic winning streak has made it difficult for oddsmakers to price any real competition. Matt Smith, as the most likely challenger, still faces long odds to upset Herrera’s march to the title. Chase Van Sant, Angie Smith, and Richard Gadson are long shots, but their odds suggest potential value if Herrera falters.

Where to Bet on NHRA Northwest Nationals 2024

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As the Western Swing kicks off at Pacific Raceways, savvy bettors will be eyeing potential upsets and value picks across all classes. With championship implications and the unique challenges of this track, the NHRA Northwest Nationals offers intriguing opportunities for those looking to capitalize on the intense competition. Keep a close eye on qualifying performances and recent momentum as you place your bets on this pivotal event.

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