Denny Hamlin faces tough field for elusive 1st NASCAR title

FILE- In this June 30, 2016, file photo, Brad Keselowski, left, and Joey Logano talk in their garage during NASCAR Sprint Cup auto racing practice at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. Denny Hamlin will be racing for the Cup against Team Penske drivers Joey Logano and Brad Keselowski, as well as Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File)

FILE - In this May 24, 2020, file photo, driver Denny Hamlin waits to qualify prior to the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. Hamlin is 0-for-3 in championship chances, his shot at an elusive first NASCAR crown ending just short of the finish line all three times he’s been close. It’s his turn again, without rival Kevin Harvick in his way in Sunday's season finale at Phoenix Raceway. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome, File)

FILE- In this Aug. 22, 2020, file photo, Chase Elliott (9) sits in his car during a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Del. Denny Hamlin will be racing for the Cup against Team Penske drivers Joey Logano and Brad Keselowski, as well as Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports. (AP Photo/Jason Minto, File)

FILE- In this March 8, 2020, file photo, Denny Hamlin walks out during driver introductions prior to the NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Ariz. Hamlin is 0-for-3 in championship chances, his shot at an elusive first NASCAR crown ending just short of the finish line all three times he’s been close. It’s his turn again, without rival Kevin Harvick in his way in Sunday's season finale at Phoenix Raceway. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso, File)