The last NASCAR Cup Series race before the playoffs didn't come without some drama.
A massive wreck sent Ryan Blaney slamming into the wall and resulted in a red flag on the last lap of the second stage during the Coke Zero Sugar 400.
Ty Gibbs lost control of his car after a collision with Christopher Bell, causing him to knock Blaney out of control and right into the wall. Fortunately, Blaney was able to walk away from the crash after hitting the outside barrier. He was evaluated for injury and quickly released.
A very hard crash for Ryan Blaney and more. #NASCAR
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) August 27, 2023
📺 : @NBC and @Peacock pic.twitter.com/TUBi1Dz8Rt
The crash affected 16 cars, including Denny Hamlin, Tyler Reddick and Ross Chastain.
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A closer look at the impact shows how much of a difference the safety barrier made for Blaney in what could have been a terrifying moment.
The SAFER Barrier really went to work for Ryan Blaney. 😳
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) August 27, 2023
Look at the wall flex as he makes impact. #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/pLvbrH65km
Blaney expressed his gratitude for the barrier after he walked away from the wreck unscathed.
Ryan Blaney talks about the hard hit he took, saying he is very thankful there was a SAFER barrier there, also crediting the new front clip for keeping him safe. pic.twitter.com/yTi2pQKbwg
— Jay W. Pennell (@jaywpennell) August 27, 2023
Brad Keselowski ultimately won the second stage, and the crash disrupted what is the last chance for a handful of drivers to qualify for the playoffs. Bubba Wallace and Chase Elliott were able to escape the wreck and stay in the race, but Gibbs wasn't so lucky and lost his chance to earn a win and a playoff spot.
Considering how violent the crash was in real time, Blaney, Gibbs, and others might still consider themselves lucky just for being able to walk away.