HUGE CHAOS: Denny Hamlin explains how Michael McDowell could have had a successful block on last lap at Talladega

In the GEICO 500, Michael McDowell was leading going into the finish line, but on the last lap at Talladega, he completely destroyed the pack.

With a sharp eye, Denny Hamlin attempted to determine whether the No. 34 could have managed to take the checkered flag. In his most recent Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin went into further detail on how McDowell could have been able to hang on for the win over the course of the weekend.

He could only have defended this by heavily backing up to the No. 6 when that player began to back off of him.

He ought to have made a strong retreat to the No. 6. And it would have resulted in a pile-up off the turn four, where they would have most likely jumped outside the No. 6; the No. 34 could then alternate between the two lanes to maintain his position, according to Hamlin. However, it’s simply a difficult track to defend. Because it’s so broad, it’s really challenging. That explains why there have been so many crashes at this track that occur in the tri-oval. He’s just in a difficult situation.
Although Hamlin had his own opinions, it’s clear that he understands how challenging McDowell’s circumstances are. The No. 34 ultimately threw one too many blocks, which caused him and several of his colleagues to end their afternoon in disappointment.

Considering the entire scenario, Hamlin wondered if it would be preferable to be in the lead approaching the finish line or if it would be better to fall behind with the race hanging in the balance.

Yes, you constantly have the thought, ‘Well, I want to lead on the final lap.’ Really, I’m not sure. Do you also? Do you not? Simply put, it’s a difficult place to be,” Hamlin said. He is aware of the significant opportunity this presents for him and his group. You’re probably correct; he believes that blocking will give him the best opportunity to prevail. However, if you play the game more slowly and give it some thought, it’s kind of like, I dunno. It might not be the end of the world if the car pulls up next to you. You could have a chance.

Hell, since they had a hook a damn left on them aside from you. Carry them within the infield. S—, I’m not sure. They definitely didn’t have the finish they had hoped for, though. Man, so many automobiles were crashed.

Denny Hamlin’s 23XI Racing team was successful in landing in victory lane, but Michael McDowell and associates are undoubtedly thinking what could have been and what the No. 34 could have done differently right now.