Denny Hamlin "Fortunate" to Maintain Point Lead After Gateway

Sep 13, 2026; Madison, Illinois, USA;Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin (11) during the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway.Joe Puetz-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectHeading into the NASCAR Cup Series Chase for the Championship, Denny Hamlin was the overwhelming favorite to take home the championship. He won the regular-season championship with ease, and it just seemed that he and crew chief Chris Gayle could do no wrong.After two underwhelming races to begin the